Reaching Out to Guam's Families

Photo Caption:  June, Manuel and Maya Santos pay a visit to Senator Telo’s Office on January 5, 2009.

 

 

 

Introducing bills, making public laws and initiating policies that strengthen our community only touches the surface of the work Senator Telo does for the people.  

Shortly before the holidays in 2009, June Santos found herself in one of the most precarious predicaments a parent could ever experience: providing shelter for her family.  With two children and a granddaughter under her care, Ms. Santos was forced to make a difficult decision between monthly rental payments or ensuring the wellbeing of a child with medical conditions.

Ms. Santos, her two sons, Manuel, Brandon and her granddaughter Maya, found their way to Senator Telo’s Office.  Senator Telo and her staff worked quickly to move the family into affordable housing – so that the Santos’ would be able to celebrate Christmas and the coming of the New Year, in a home they could call their own.

“This situation was about more than helping a person in need, it was about doing the right thing,” Senator Taitague said.  “I’m sure anyone who appreciates our unique island way of life, we all know that help is just a neighbor away.  We we’re taught to never turn down someone in need and whether or not we are senators, public officials or businessmen, we all have a responsibility for one another.  That’s what makes our island special.  I want to make sure that every child has a safe place to sleep and nourishing food to eat and not because it’s my duty as senator, but my duty as a person.”

Though many are struggling through a failing economy, Senator Telo sees and understands the difficulties facing so many on our island.  This understanding comes from much more than just the knowledge of public laws or even legislative processes, it comes from compassion, consideration and a culture where lending a hand to brother and sister in need goes without question.