The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) Charities has donated 332 wheelchairs to the Mobility Devices Services.

The services come under the National Health Services and their headquarters hosted the official handover ceremony at Moto’otua.

Minister of Health, Tuitama Dr Leao Talalelei Tuitama, acknowledged the kindness and generosity of the LDS Charities to continue to come to the assistance of the Ministry by donating mobility units for people who cannot walk. 

“It is with great pleasure that I accept this on behalf of Samoa’s Health Sector (Ministry of Health (MOH) and National Health Services (NHS)). LDS have been faithful partners of the MOH and NHS in assisting generously, and donating wheelchairs and mobility aids as well as other medical supplies over the years.

“I also would like to mention the support by LDS through scholarships for people to be trained in prosthesis that is needed by a lot of our people here. The gift which we receive today ensures accessibility and mobility which is crucial to our people with disabilities,” he said. 

Tuitama also said the donation will give the recipients more freedom and independence, which will encourage their participation and full integration into society.

“According to the bible ‘a gift opens the way and ushers the giver into the presence of the great’ with that being said the Lord blesses the giver more than the receiver,” he said.

A representative from the LDS Charities, Elder Fata said that it is the LDS Charities vision to improve mobility, health, and the educational and economic opportunities for people with physical disabilities.

“We also acknowledge so many people that have made this donation possible.

According to one of the representatives for LDS Charities, Elder Scott Cameron, their approach is working with local organizations to improve the services for the physically disabled and provide manual wheelchairs or walking aids that are appropriate to individual needs and circumstances.

LDS Charities is the humanitarian arm of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Their purpose is to relieve suffering, foster self-reliance and provide opportunities for service.