Thanks to donations and support from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, millions of children in Ghana, West Africa, were vaccinated against a deadly preventable disease in four days.
The Ghana Health Service on October 1 launched a national campaign to provide free vaccinations against measles and rubella, the country’s most deadly childhood diseases after malaria.
Shutdowns and closures related to the COVID-19 pandemic have disrupted routine immunization schedules for many children under 5 years of age, and have since led to more outbreaks of preventable diseases.
The church’s donation benefited print communications that provided information about the campaign in several languages spoken across Ghana, the church’s Africa Newsroom explained.
Marian Esiape, manager of the church’s welfare and self-reliance services in West Africa, explained the church’s interest in participating.
“During His earthly ministry, Jesus Christ showed steadfast love for children, healed the sick, and cared for the poor and needy. His compassion continues to inspire us today. continues to give,” Esiape said. “Following the Lord’s example, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are dedicated to serving those in need, with a special emphasis today on children, through volunteerism, collaboration, and general giving. , we provide tools for healing, support, and self-reliance to communities around the world.”
Meanwhile, in September, the Ghana Takoradi Stake collaborated with the Takoradi Regional Hospital to organize free health screenings at the stake center for community members and church members.
Health professionals from the Takoradi Ghana Stake and Takoradi Regional Hospital conduct free testing in Takoradi, Ghana, on September 23, 2024. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Tests include heart screening, pulse rate monitoring, blood pressure, blood sugar levels, weight, and height. Stake member Juliet Mensah said: These tests would have cost a lot of money. ”
Several medical professionals from the hospital attended, and Medical Director Dr. George Peprah praised the overall health and well-being of Latter-day Saints through the teachings of the Church, including the Word of Wisdom. “Our members are staying well. Most of the people we’ve responded to are healthy,” he said.
When asked why they came, one of the nurses said, referring to the church’s donation of medical equipment to the hospital. This is the least we can do. ”
Free medical and dental care in Ecuador
For four days in September, churches and the Love Project teamed up to provide free medical and dental care to people in need in several cities in Ecuador, South America.
Love Project volunteers will gather in Riobamba, Ecuador on September 10, 2024 for a free medical and dental event for the community. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
General practitioners and dentists from Ecuador and the United States donated their time and talent to care for 750 patients, performing fillings, cleanings and extractions, and distributing needed medicines.
“The experience was deeply moving,” said Love Project President Myrna Fernelius in a news release from the church’s Ecuadorian Newsroom. “Many elderly people and children reciprocated with smiles the efforts of the professionals who provided selfless assistance. Each patient received treatment that went beyond medical care. It was an expression of Christian love. It’s a moment of peace.”
Child nutrition program in the Philippines
In the Philippines, the Church conducts nutritional testing of children in stake centers. In July, the Makati East Philippines Stake held a child nutrition screening at a meetinghouse in Taguig City.
These efforts are part of the Church’s global commitment to women and children. Through collaboration with local health authorities, Relief Society helps members of the Church in many areas around the world receive support, connect with local resources, and learn about proper nutrition for children, especially those under five. We are leading efforts to
Children and parents register for free health screening at Makati East Philippines Stake Center on July 20, 2024. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
At the free event, 59 children were tested and six pregnant women underwent medical check-ups.
Participating emergency medicine resident Dr. Don Kenneth Parde told the Church’s Philippine Newsroom that he was glad to be a part of such a valuable activity considering the risk of malnutrition to children in the area. .
“We can help by counseling mothers and children, especially regarding diet, and assessing whether children are receiving proper nutrition,” he said.
