Christmas came early for the abandoned grandmothers staying at the Golden Reception and Action Center for the Elderly and other Special Cases or G.R.A.C.E.S. Failon Ngayon, which is celebrating its eighth year this month, spearheaded a renovation project that has now given them a more livable and comfortable home, complete with appliances and facilities that will make each day more beautiful for them.
In the Oct. 8 episode of the program, multi-awarded TV and radio anchor Ted Failon gave viewers a peek at the improved Tamundong Ward of G.R.A.C.E.S., where elderly women like Carol Hullar are spending the remaining days of their lives.
Carol could not hide her happiness upon seeing their new home. “We are happy because our place is now clean and we can finally have a place to sleep on comfortably,” she said. Another resident added, “Now even if it’s raining, I won’t get wet while I sleep.”
Ted first featured G.R.A.C.E.S., which serves as a home for senior citizens found in the streets or have been abandoned by their families, last May. This led to partnerships with organizations and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) for a project that will give joy and comfort to its residents, who continue to long for the love of their families.
Apart from support for the repairs of the hall, donations in the form of pillows, blankets, hospital beds, and modern wheelchairs also came in. A flat screen TV with an ABS-CBN TVPlus box was also given to provide amusement to the grandmothers. Several volunteer students also helped out in painting the area with happy colors.
Ted said with these improvements, they hope to make the elderly women’s lives more bearable and longer.
“Everyone here wants to live longer. And I’m sure with this facility, we can help them have a longer life. We thank the grandmothers for the inspiration they have given us,” he said.
Joining Failon Ngayon in this effort were the DN Steel Group of Companies, Gloria Dy Sun Corporation, Yakult Philippines, Rotary Club North Bay East, United Architects of the Philippines-National, Bayanihan Arkitektura, Davies Paints, and DSWD.
“We are glad that we’re able to give back in this way. The renovation and design were excellently done, the hall is well ventilated and it spreads good vibes. Everything that the elderly needs is now right here at the facility,” Emmanuel Leyco, DSWD undersecretary said.
According to Merly Hervas, House Parent at G.R.A.C.E.S., “This is of great help to us, our elderly will be more comfortable and at the same time we could assist them better and give them a higher level of service they rightfully deserve,” she shared.
Meanwhile, Failon Ngayon also launched its microsite as part of its eighth year celebration. Videos and articles on the program’s features as well as episodes can be found at news.abs-cbn.com/failonngayon. The “Failon Ngayon FYI” section also gives information on how to help out those in need with the help of “Failon Ngayon” and government agencies.
Catch the heartfelt anniversary episode of Failon Ngayon featuring its early Christmas gift to the women of the G.R.A.C.E.S. on iwantv.com.ph or skyondemand.com.ph.
For more information, visit news.abs-cbn.com/failonngayon and follow@Failon_Ngayon on Facebook and Twitter. For those who want to extend their assistance to G.R.A.C.E.S., please call 02-929-1187 or email them at graces.NCR@gmail.com.