As Christmas approached in Papua Tengah (Central Papua) Province, the atmosphere in Nabire carried a sense of anticipation mixed with quiet concern. For many families and vulnerable communities, the holiday season is not only a time of celebration but also a period when daily needs become more pressing. Rising living costs, limited income, and dependence on social institutions often make festive moments difficult for those on the margins. It was within this context that Deputy Governor of Papua Tengah, Deinas Geley, chose to step directly into the community, carrying a message that extended beyond official speeches and formal ceremonies.
In the days leading up to Christmas 2025, Deinas Geley led a provincial initiative to share Christmas compassion with seven social foundations in Nabire Regency. The program focused on vulnerable groups including children in orphanages, people with disabilities, and elderly residents who rely on institutional care. More than a ceremonial gesture, the initiative reflected a deliberate effort by the Papua Tengah Provincial Government to ensure that the spirit of Christmas was felt by those who are often unseen during times of celebration.
Bringing Government Closer to the People
From the first visit, it was clear that the Deputy Governor’s presence was intended to be personal. Rather than limiting his role to a symbolic handover, Geley engaged directly with residents and caregivers at each foundation. He listened to stories of daily struggle, resilience, and quiet dedication. For many recipients, this was the first time a senior provincial leader had visited their facilities in person.
In his remarks, Geley emphasized that Christmas is not only about festivity but about solidarity. He spoke about the responsibility of government to remain close to its people, especially during moments when empathy matters most. According to him, development is not measured solely through infrastructure or economic figures, but also through how society treats its most vulnerable members.
This message resonated deeply in Nabire, a regency that serves as an important administrative and social hub in Papua Tengah. While urban growth has brought progress, many residents still face challenges related to access to healthcare, education, and social services. The Deputy Governor’s visits were therefore received not just as holiday outreach, but as reassurance that the provincial government remains attentive to real conditions on the ground.
Seven Foundations, Seven Stories of Resilience
The Christmas outreach program covered seven social foundations across Nabire, each with its own unique challenges and stories. Some provide shelter and education for children who have lost parental support. Others care for people with physical and intellectual disabilities, while several focus on elderly residents who no longer have family members to depend on.
At each location, the atmosphere was marked by warmth and sincerity. Children gathered with visible excitement as assistance packages arrived. Elderly residents welcomed visitors with quiet smiles, often expressing gratitude through simple gestures and prayers. Caregivers, many of whom work with limited resources and long hours, described the visit as both encouraging and emotionally uplifting.
The assistance distributed included food staples, daily necessities, and other items tailored to the needs of each foundation. The aim was not uniform distribution, but targeted support based on prior assessments conducted by the provincial social services team. This approach ensured that aid addressed actual needs rather than symbolic expectations.
Reaching Children with Compassion and Dignity
One of the most touching moments occurred during visits to orphanages and child welfare foundations. Many of the children living in these facilities come from difficult backgrounds marked by loss, poverty, or family separation. Christmas, while joyful for many, can be emotionally complex for children who lack parental presence.
During the visits, Deinas Geley took time to interact directly with the children. He spoke with them, encouraged them to continue their education, and reminded them that they are an important part of Papua Tengah’s future. Simple gestures, such as listening to their stories or sharing laughter, left a strong impression.
For caregivers, the visit was a reminder that their work matters. They spoke of how recognition from government leaders strengthens morale and renews commitment to their demanding roles. Several caregivers expressed hope that such engagement would continue beyond seasonal events and become part of a sustained relationship between social institutions and the provincial administration.
Standing with People with Disabilities
Another key focus of the program was support for foundations caring for people with disabilities. These institutions often operate under financial and logistical constraints, while their residents require consistent care, medical attention, and specialized support. The Christmas outreach recognized these challenges and sought to offer both material assistance and moral encouragement.
During his visits, the Deputy Governor emphasized inclusivity and respect. He acknowledged that people with disabilities are frequently overlooked in public discourse, despite being integral members of society. By prioritizing these foundations, the Papua Tengah government sent a message that inclusion is not merely a slogan, but a principle that guides action.
Foundation managers noted that government visits help amplify public awareness of disability issues. They expressed appreciation not only for the assistance received, but for the visibility the visit brought to their cause. Such recognition, they said, can inspire broader community support and understanding.
Honoring the Elderly During the Holidays
The outreach program also included visits to facilities caring for elderly residents. Many of these individuals have spent their lives contributing to their communities through work, family, and service. In their later years, they now depend on institutional care due to health conditions or lack of family support.
For the elderly, the Deputy Governor’s visit carried deep emotional significance. Conversations were slow and reflective, filled with memories of past celebrations and hopes for peace and comfort. Geley expressed gratitude for their life journeys and assured them that they remain valued members of society.
Caregivers at elderly foundations highlighted that loneliness is often the greatest challenge faced by residents during holiday seasons. The presence of visitors and the acknowledgment of their dignity provided comfort that went beyond material assistance. It reaffirmed that aging does not diminish one’s worth or place within the community.
Coordinated Efforts Behind the Scenes
While the public saw the warmth of the visits, the success of the program depended on careful coordination behind the scenes. The Papua Tengah Provincial Government worked closely with local authorities, social services, and foundation managers to identify recipients and plan logistics.
Nabire’s geography and infrastructure require thoughtful planning to ensure timely delivery of assistance. The program demonstrated that with coordination and commitment, government services can reach those who need them most. Officials emphasized that transparency and accountability guided the distribution process, ensuring that aid was delivered fairly and responsibly.
The Christmas outreach also aligned with broader provincial policies aimed at strengthening social protection systems. As a relatively new province, Papua Tengah continues to refine its approach to social welfare, seeking models that combine efficiency with compassion.
Leadership Rooted in Empathy
Observers noted that Deinas Geley’s approach reflected a leadership style rooted in empathy. Rather than maintaining distance, he chose to be physically present among vulnerable communities. This approach has helped shape public perception of the provincial government as accessible and responsive.
In his closing remarks during one of the visits, Geley stated that leadership must be felt, not just seen. According to him, policies gain meaning when they touch real lives. Christmas, he said, serves as a reminder that government exists not only to regulate and plan, but also to care.
This message resonated across Nabire, particularly among social workers and volunteers who often operate with limited recognition. Many expressed hope that the spirit of collaboration shown during the Christmas season would continue throughout the year.
A Broader Message of Unity and Hope
Beyond its immediate impact, the Christmas outreach carried a broader message about unity in Papua Tengah. In a province marked by cultural diversity and geographic challenges, acts of compassion help strengthen social bonds. By bringing government leaders, social institutions, and communities together, the program reinforced a shared sense of responsibility for one another.
For residents of Nabire, the initiative was a reminder that progress is not solely defined by physical development, but by how communities care for their weakest members. The smiles of children, the gratitude of caregivers, and the quiet prayers of the elderly reflected a collective hope for a more inclusive future.
Conclusion
As the Christmas season came to an end, the impact of the outreach continued to be felt within the seven foundations visited. Supplies helped ease daily burdens, while the attention and acknowledgment strengthened morale. More importantly, the visits sparked conversations about sustained support and long-term collaboration between government and social institutions.
The Papua Tengah Provincial Government has indicated that social welfare will remain a priority in its development agenda. While holiday programs provide important relief, officials recognize the need for consistent engagement throughout the year.
In the end, the Christmas compassion shared by Deputy Governor Deinas Geley in Nabire was not just about giving assistance. It was about presence, respect, and reaffirming the dignity of every individual. In a season often defined by celebration, the initiative stood as a quiet yet powerful reminder that the true meaning of Christmas lies in caring for one another, especially those who need it most.
