Media Release
Dubai, Mar 20: St Mary’s Konkan Community (SMKC) Dubai, now registered as St Mary's Charitable Trust (SMCT), Mangalore, is celebrating 25 years of service and legacy alongside its well-wishers.
In partnership with the Trinity Capuchin Friars of Karnataka and Vimukti Charitable Trust, a mission to build 25 homes in Pothnal, Raichur, Karnataka, on their 25th year celebrations is in full force.
The initiative will be launched on Sunday, March 23, evening from 4 to 8 pm at St Anne’s Friary, Mini Hall, Jail Road, Mangaluru.
SMKC Dubai Association has always aimed at being unique in all its endeavors and is considered to be one of the most versatile and generous association for the Mangalurean community in Dubai. In a span of 24 years, SMKC Dubai has contributed Rs 5 crores towards education, medical aid and other causes through trust funds which still exist today and running smoothly. Hence SMCT was registered in Mangaluru to continue the good work and be operational. In addition, SMKC Dubai helped raise funds for Mangalore diocese through Grand Konkan Showers 2015 and by hosting Grand Konkan Showers 2017 and 2019 for various pastoral needs in Udupi diocese.
Generous and supportive benefactors/donors and the Konkan Community have always backed the noble causes in and around Dubai and beyond in Karnataka.
Within two months of perseverance, SMKC Dubai has confirmed the restoration costs of 15 homes already. Well-wishers from Texas, USA and Dubai, UAE and members themselves have come forward to support the cause. Each home costs Rs 3.5 lac.
PLATINUM Sponsor: Construction of 5 homes
Indian Catholic Association of Austin (ICAA), Central Texas, USA.
GOLD Sponsor: Construction of 3 homes
GLOBELINK WESTSTAR SHIPPING LLC, Martin Aranha and family,
SILVER Sponsor: Construction of 2 homes
- Leonid Sequeira and family
- Josefina Sequeira
In loving memory of his father / her husband of late Robert Sequeira, Dubai / Matpady
CORAL Sponsors: Construction of 1 home each:
- Noel & Jennifer Mascarenhas and family
- Joseph & Celine Fernandes and family
- Noronha family
- SMKC member Family (Bhaskar G; Anna & Pius D’Cruz)
- St Mary’s Charitable Trust, Mangalore
Jennifer Mascarenhas, former SMKC Dubai President (2009-2011), reaffirms, “Our mission to restore 25 homes in collaboration with the Vimukti team will continue in Pothnal, Raichur, throughout this year and next. Fr Sathish will engrave the donors' names on the restored or newly built homes in Raichur and provide updates on the progress as construction advances."
Additionally, the office of the bishop of Austin, Texas, has pledged its support for this cause next year, further ensuring a brighter future for the tribal communities in need.
The silver jubilee celebrations will be on Sunday March 23.
Programme:
4 - 5 PM Meet and Greet with high tea
5 PM sharp Welcome and Introduction
5.45 PM Vimukti in action
6.45 PM Recognising humanitarian activities
7.45 pm Dinner
SMKC Dubai / SMCT Mangalore will be recognising and honoring below 5 persons this Sunday in appreciation for their good works towards the Mangalurean community:
1. Corrine Rasquinha White Doves
2. Joseph Crasta Snehalaya
3. Stephen Mascarenhas Ian Cares Foundation
4. Roshan Dsouza Humanity, Belman
5. Dr Michael Lobo Genealogist
A Call to Compassion and sacrifices during this Lenten season 2025 and beyond:
In the spirit of giving and sharing to the least of brethren, all the benevolent well-wishers are invited to join in the campaign to provide a shelter above the heads of the underprivileged brothers and sisters in Raichur.
Together, a tapestry of hope can be weaved, providing not just shelter, but a foundation upon which dreams can flourish.
One may donate to build a home or contribute any small amount directly to:
VIMUKTI CHARITABLE TRUST JEENUR ROAD POTHNAL, MANVI TALUK, RAICHUR DISTRICT- 584143, KARNATAKA, INDIA
Account Holder: Vimukti Charitable Trust Pothnal
Bank A/C Number: 18032200022228
Account Type: SB
Bank Name: Canara Bank
Branch: Jawalagera, Sindhanoor Taluk, Raichur District 584143
IFSC Code: CNRB0011803
MICR Code: 584015204
Contact:: Fr Sathish Fernandes: +91 9448335778
This project will thrive throughout the Jubilee Year 2025 and beyond, fulfilling the promise of hope and renewal.
May the shared endeavors continue to inspire and uplift, echoing the timeless truth that in giving, one receives the richest blessings.