Buenavista, Agusan del Norte – Time flies too fast that sometimes we forget the important events of our lives and most of all our loved ones’ special moments, so as with our elders in Por Cristo who were abandoned by their families. Tears fell and hearts were broken in the midst of celebration during the 13th Anniversary of Por Cristo Foundation. Our beloved elders were very emotional when the staff and the talented grandpas and grandmas shared their spectacular talents. One blind elder named Evangeline, happily serenaded the guests. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office Caraga Regional Director Minda B. Brigoli touched and sympathized the situation of our elders specially those who are paralyzed. In her inspirational message, “I am happy that I celebrated with you in this momentous event. I know you need extra care and love. I salute our volunteers who spend their time taking care of our elders,” Brigoli said. “The Department is always ready and available to help whatever the needs for our elders,” she added. Por Cristo Foundation Inc. is a residential facility or a home for the abandoned/neglected elderly. It was established on April 22, 2011. Its vision is to have a society where no one is left abandoned. Its mission is ensuring the well-being of the poorest abandoned people through works of charity and mercy. The opening of the home for the abandoned elderly started when Por Cristo received a call that an abandoned elderly died alone in her shanty and neighbors asked for assistance for her burial. From there and then the caring of the older persons begin. The celebration was spearheaded by Most Rev. Juan De Dios M. Pueblos, D.D and Executive Director Rev. Fr. Dandy E. Marababol. Currently, they are serving forty-one (41) residents in their facility. DSWD has been continuously providing Technical Assistance to all Por Cristo staff as one way of capacitating the knowledge, attitude and skills of their service providers as well enhancing their facility per standard set by DSWD. ### Social Marketing Unit/Maria Cecilia N. Sosas
