Media Release
Mangaluru, Aug 11: For Joachim D'Souza and his family August 10 was a joyful day where they thanked God Almighty for providing a beautiful house for them, a dream turned reality through Snehalaya Charitable Trust through their social outreach programme.
Fr John Vas, vicar forane of Kasargod deanery and the parish priest of Bela Church blessed the newly constructed house in the presence of the dignified invited guests and family members.
After the blessing of the house, a traditional customary house-warming was performed by the elders, followed by a simple meaningful formal function, officiated by Sr Jeeva, MSJ principal of St Marys College Cherupanathadi, Kanhangad as the chief guest.
A noted writer, TV programme host and journalist, Ravi Naikapu was the guest of honour. Advocate, Thomas D'Souza, Fr John Vas, Rajesh Stephen Kumble, the trustees of Snehalaya were on the stage.
Geo D Silva, advisor to Snehalaya compered the programme and highlighted the glimpses of Snehalaya’s 11 year-journey. Building the house was an acute need assessed during the COVID-19 drive undertaken for helping the needy. This is fourth house completed in just 45 days with the help of the local youth, their yeomen service and humanitarian gestures.
It also was recalled that the youth-led by Naveen D'Souza of Bela had contributed and constructed a toilet for this family a year back and the half-done work was completed through Snehalaya who provided a beautiful house.
The noted writer, Ravi Naikapu beautifully shared his experience of being with Snehalaya, who is spreading the light around. Fr John Vas mentioned that Snehalaya is carrying on this mission of wiping the tears of the poor and diversified activities have brought joy in many homes. He also appealed to the public and good-hearted donors to contribute generously to the mission.
Sr Jeeva MSJ, handed over the possession of the house to Joachim D'Souza, with an encrypted portrait 'There is a reason to smile- A home by Snehayala'. In her message, she expressed that the Holy Spirit leads the team of Snehalaya and its founder Joseph to carry on these projects. In spite of all the challenges going ahead reaching out to the poor and needy is a praiseworthy task. She congratulated Snehalaya and wished happiness to the family members and to become a role model in the neighbourhood.
The daughter of Joachim, Jenita, studying in the 8th standard expressed her hearty feelings thanking Snehalaya and the donor. This house was completed by the financial help of a sole donor, who sacrificed his wedding anniversary celebration and wants to remain anonymous. His kind gesture was recognized and on his behalf, Naveen Ferrao was felicitated with honour.
The founder, Joseph Crasta spoke on the occasion about the concept of building the houses and how the applications are pouring in. All the cases are very deserving and make one feel that God lives in these houses and we search for God elsewhere. He also expressed his desire to start a small hospital to treat the mentally ill patients in Kasargod.
About 28 volunteers were recognized and the guests were given a token of remembrance. A special token of appreciation was given to the people who offered special service at the housing mission.
Raju Kumble thanked the audience and especially Joseph for taking up such a mission around the society irrespective of caste and creed. A special thank you note was expressed to the donor and a prayer offered for his well being.
A simple tea party was arranged and the programme was a memorable event bringing special contentment to many, the family of Joachim, the volunteers and of course Snehalaya for accomplishing the fourth project.
The trustees Olivia Crasta and Thomas D'Souza planted a sapling to remember the event and all the guests accompanied. It was a meaningful event with a message.