Pics: Canute Mathias
Mangaluru, Dec 15: The SDS Nursery and ABCD Social Healthcare Network were inaugurated at Ian Cares Foundation on Saturday, December 14, 2024.
The program began with the reading of a text by Desmond Menezes, manager of Ian Cares Foundation, who explained the significance of Christmas, the identity of Jesus Christ, and the tradition of celebrating ‘Christmas Sauharda Koota’ with neighbors every year.
Purushottam K V, principal of Pompeii College, Talipady, inaugurated the nursery and expressed his best wishes for its success, stating, "We are surrounded by the bounty of Mother Nature, with lush gardens and greenery. There could not have been a better place or time for such an event. I wish the nursery not only generates revenue for the inmates but also contributes to the excellent infrastructural development plan."
Fr Jockim Fernandes, parish priest of Kinnigoli Church, and Shalet Pinto, president of the District Mahila Congress, jointly inaugurated the ABCD Social Healthcare Network, initiated by the foundation.
Hemacharya, managing trustee of Ian Cares Foundation, explained the initiative. He stated that 'A' stands for Ambulance Service, which aims to integrate all nearby ambulances through GPS-enabled software, ensuring timely access. 'B' stands for blood and platelet drives, 'C' represents the care of hospitalized patients who lack family support, and 'D' focuses on training for safe driving practices, which is lacking in the area. Hemacharya added that Shalet Pinto has pledged her unit's support for the initiative, while desk work will be handled at the center, in line with the foundation's objectives.
Shalet Pinto elaborated on each aspect of the initiative, emphasizing its importance for a developing society. She noted the crucial need for platelet donations, particularly in light of the recent surge in Dengue fever and cancer cases. Pinto highlighted the importance of safe driving practices and the need for efficient ambulance services, stressing the urgency of improving the 108 ambulance facility.
Fr Jockim Fernandes shared his spiritual journey, which spans his studies in Sanskrit, Upanishads, Yoga, and Hindu devotional mythology, and his embrace of a life dedicated to serving humanity. He praised the work of the foundation and stressed that, beyond religious and cultural differences, the fight against drugs, alcohol, and depression is essential in a divided world.
Dr Derek Lobo, former director of the UN Leprosy Eradication Project for Southeast Asia and a trustee of the foundation, explained his involvement in the foundation’s benevolent work. Ina Mascarenhas, another trustee and counselor at 'Sarva Dharma Sangama,' delivered the vote of thanks.
The event concluded with a ‘Christmas Sauharda Koota’ solidarity lunch, attended by neighbors, well-wishers, and friends.