Media Release
Mangaluru, Aug 18: This year's Independence Day was special for White Doves with a string of celebrations. The day began with the holy mass celebrating the feast of Assumption and praying for the nation.
In honor of the sacred occasion, a grotto of Mother Mary was blessed, symbolizing the devotion and the protection she provides. The blessing of the grotto added spiritual dimension to the day symbolising the deep connection between faith and nation. A special prayer was offered by Dr Joylene D’Almeida.
The chief guest and the guest of honor were received by the NCC Cadets of White Doves. Dr Elroy Saldanha, the chief guest hoisted the national flag during this momentous occasion. A tricolor bunch of baloons were released by the guest of honor Dr Latheesh Leo, Dr Vivian D’Almeida and Dr Joylene D’Almeida. The national anthem was sung with gusto by all the residents of White Doves.
A 17-seater TATA Winger was gifted to White Doves by the benevolence of Ronald and Dorothy Pinto of Abu Dhabi, which was then blessed by Fr Alwin D’Cunha, and the keys were handed over by Sylvia D’Silva on their behalf. An upgraded emergency/treatment unit with oxygen, vital monitors, suction machine, Tabletop oximeters, Emergency stretcher, ECG etc were sponsored by Jason and Karen Fernandes of “The Fernandes Foundation” USA and was inaugurated by Dr Vivian D’Almeida. A brand-new physiotherapy unit a gift of hope, healing and better health for those in need at the White Doves by Roshan D’Souza and Karen Pereira was inaugurated by Dr Latheesh Leo.
During this special occasion, White Doves honored two exceptional individuals for their dedication and service to community. "Champa, a dedicated lady home guard who tirelessly served our community with courage and commitment and Laxmibai, who has diligently worked as a garbage collector for 15 years, contributing immensely to keeping our surroundings clean and healthy, deserve our appreciation and gratitude," said Corrine Rasquinha the founder of White Doves. As a token of appreciation, they were presented with the shawl, fruits and a cash gift of Rs 5000. The day continued with a sumptuous breakfast sponsored by a benefactor, games and gifts for all the staff, students and inmates which brought a lot of happiness to all. DJ Kiran enthralled the students and the inmates with great music, and they danced to their hearts’ content. To wind up the celebration a grand lunch was organized through the courtesy of a well-wisher who was celebrating his 50th birthday.
The programme was compered by Roshel Fernandes. Jerome Coelho, the secretary of White Doves extended his thanks to the chief guest, guests of honor, guests, staff, for making the day a fruitful, enjoyable and a memorable one for all.