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    4 September 2014 - Kuala Lumpur
    News Release

    Service in Malaysia by Mormon Helping Hands

    Mormon Helping Hands volunteers provided the manpower to unload 338 new wheelchairs which recently arrived in a shipping container from China at Cheshire Homes Selangor in West Malaysia. In the last 10 years, LDS Charities has partnered with Cheshire Homes Selangor to provide over 2,500 wheelchairs for disabled needy persons, unable to purchase a wheelchair on their own.   

       
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      Twenty three volunteers donned bright colored vests and unloaded the container on a hot September morning in Malaysia. On hand was Siti Mazyana, an employee of Cheshire Homes, who has received training from LDS Charities to assess, fit, and train applicants for proper wheel chair use. She stated that only a few chairs were left from the last shipment and "we are so happy to have this new shipment arrive now".  Representatives from Cheshire homes assess, fit and distribute close to 350 new chairs annually to those in need throughout West Malaysia. Recipients may be referred by NGOs, (Non-Government Organizations) in Malaysia; such as Beautiful Gate, PSPK, Tasputra Perkim, Cheshire Homes Penang and Cheshire Homes Johor Baru and other groups. Anyone with a need and unable to afford to purchase a wheelchair is eligible to receive an LDS Charities wheelchair free of charge.

      Katelin Parcell, an LDS Charities volunteer said, "This has been an amazing morning. I love to serve; it brings me so much joy.  We are sweating, but it is worth it."

      Elder and Sister Thatcher, West Malaysia Welfare Humanitarian Specialists said the official turnover ceremony for the wheelchairs will be held in conjunction with Amal Selangor Cheshire's Fiftieth Anniversary and the Malaysian hosted Cheshire Homes International Convention, 17-19 October, 2014.  Representatives from  Cheshire organizations throughout Asia will be attending. Several people with disabilities will be assessed and fitted with the first of the new wheelchairs during the official turnover on October 19.  

      Helping Hands volunteer Jon Mikovits shared his reason for enjoying the morning of service.  "Growing up I had a really good friend who was often in a wheelchair and I always wanted to know how I might help her.  Being a part of this service has made me feel closer to my friend than I ever have before."

      A volunteer from Germany, Clara Borcherding said "I love to do hard work. When I can do it for others, it is satisfying and fills my heart".

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