Hope for seniors at Golden Acres

Social Welfare Secretary Dinky Soliman. FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines–There’s a glimmer of hope for the 213 abandoned seniors at the Haven for the Elderly.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DENR), World Experience Philippines (WEP) and the local government of Tanay, Rizal, recently signed two memoranda of agreement to expand social services to old people staying at the department’s elderly care facility.

Under the agreement, the local government will allocate a yearly budget of P300,000 for medical tests and burial expenses of the elders, provide medical and dental services, and improve the center’s facilities.

WEP, on the other hand, agreed to provide volunteers who will share their skills, experience and resources to augment the center’s staff.

Formerly known as the Golden Acres in Quezon City, the residential care center was transferred to Barangay (village) Sampaloc in Tanay, Rizal, in 2010 and was accredited by the DSWD Standards Bureau.

Social Welfare and Development Secretary Dinky Soliman said that majority of the clients in the center are either separated or widowed.

Aside from the cottages, with a total of 300 beds, the center offers amenities which include a therapy and fitness room, music room, and recreational room.

It provides residents a venue for entertainment and interaction during anniversary celebrations and special occasions.

Center head Ricky Bunao said the center plans to further improve its services by constructing a multipurpose hall, swimming pool and team building area; expanding its vegetable orchard to provide the residents and staff with a regular supply of fresh food; and turning the facility into an eco-tourist park.