Jen gives back

Jennylyn Mercado, true joy can be felt when she is able to help the less fortunate even in the smallest way. Ever since winning the StarStruck top prize in 2004, Jen has made it a point to be a blessing to the young and old who need attention and help. “Every year (kong ginagawa ‘to) simula noong nanalo ako sa StarStruck . Parang lahat ng blessings na nare-receive ko, binabahagi ko sa mga nangangailangan” she says. This is also the reason why in 2005, Jen founded the Bata Foundation, a charity institution for battered children in Cavite. “Ito ‘yung foundation ko na twice a year, tuwing Christmas and my birthday, doon ako nagce-celebrate,” she shares. And as another school year nears Jen says she will definitely visit her foundation to give out school supplies. On the celebration of her 20th birthday, the young actress went to Golden Acres, a home for the aged located in Quezon City. Here, she donated eight wheelchairs for the elderly who already have problems with their mobility. “(Dito naman ang pinili ko) para naman mapasaya ‘yung matatanda,” Jen explains. “Ngayon kailangan na nila ng mag-aalaga sa kanila. Matatanda na sila, kumbaga, konti na lang ‘yung time nila sa mundo natin so kailangan pasayahin na natin sila ng sobra.” Her mother adds that Jen was inspired to pursue with this outreach program after her father’s feet were amputated due to diabetes. In behalf of the institution, Myrna Lacson, the social worker in charge for the day, extends her heartfelt thanks to Jen for the wheelchairs she donated. “Maraming salamat at binigyan mo ng priority ang aming matatanda. Malaking tulong ‘yung mga wheelchair lalo na doon sa mga may problems na sa mobility. Happy birthday at good luck sa iyong career!” The happiness she sees in her recipients’ faces is enough reason to make Jen feel fulfilled. “For me kasi, happy ako at ang gaan ng feeling ko kapag nakakatulong ako kahit na sa maliliit lang na things,” she discloses. Thus, she encourages other people to share what they can. “Kung gusto ninyo, bakit hindi ninyo gawin ito tuwing may okasyon? Pasayahin din natin yung mga taong nangangailangan.” --Text by Jessa Ericka Bien. Photos by Mitch S. Mauricio. Wanna know how Jen feels about being 20? Click here to find out. Share your thoughts about Jen in the forums! Check out Jen's Photo Gallery Get to know more about Jen through Fanatxt! Simply text JENNYLYN and send to 4627 for all telcos. P2.50 per message.