Peilapalap, Pohnpei: September 27, 2023 – The Pohnpei State Government is pleased to extend heartfelt gratitude as we acknowledge the generous contributions of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS). The LDS Church’s recent donation of wheelchairs, walkers and crutches is an embodiment of compassion and generosity that will enhance the lives of Pohnpeian residents facing mobility challenges.
The recipients of these life changing mobility aids have already been identified through local municipal governments in collaboration with the Governor’s Office. The individuals set to receive these mobility aids will be contacted with details on the distribution process.
In a brief ceremony at the Governor’s Cabinet Conference room, Elder Bill Davis, acknowledged and praised the “Faithful members” of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints for their contributions that have made this donation possible. He spoke of the two great commandments of loving God and loving your neighbor as a basis for the good work that the LDS church continues to do across the world, regardless of race, country or religion.
Governor Oliver expressed his deepest gratitude to Elder Bill Davis and the LDS Church, on behalf of the Pohnpei State Government and the intended recipients of the donations. He related the cooperation and collaboration of the local municipal governments to identify and verify those who require wheelchairs, walkers or crutches.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints has a rich history of humanitarian service throughout the world. This is not the first donation of wheelchairs made by the LDS Church to Pohnpei. This donation reaffirms the Church’s mission shared by Elder Bill Davis to “love and serve our neighbors”.
Accompanying Elder Bill Davis, Welfare and Self-Reliance Manager, who flew from Guam, were the following Church members:
Elder Allan McMakin, Humanitarian Project Manager
Sister Dana McMakin, Humanitarian Project Manager
Elder Kim Burtenshaw, Public Affairs & Communications
Sister Cyndi Burtenshaw, Public Affairs & Communications
President Williamson Rodriguez, Pohnpei Stake President