Media Release

Kuwait, Nov 30: The dream of United Mangaloreans Kuwait (UMK), a group of like-minded people, of helping the underprivileged turned into reality for the fifth time, during ‘Fun-Filled Evening 2014’, a successful fullhouse show staged to generate funds for a charitable cause.

The show was presented before a large audience of over 1200 people at the American International School, Maidan Hawally. The event comprised melodious songs, foot-tapping dances and a hilarious Konkani drama ‘Sagle Dinvchen Thane’ written by Pradeep Barboza Paladka.

The proceeds of the show, totalling INR 32,03,111 in all, was contributed towards two institutions:

- Manasa (Rehabilitation and Training Center, Pamboor, Udupi district
- De Mercede Orphanage (Home for destitute children, Panir, Deralakatte, Mangaluru

The amount in the form of a vehicle (bus) was handed over to Henry Menezes, president and managing trustee of Manasa during a simple ceremony held at Udupi Church grounds recently. Bishop Dr Gerald Issac Lobo blessed the vehicle and praised the good deeds of UMK towards the needy brethren. Officials of Manasa and media persons were also present.

UMK members also visited Manasa and spent some time with the less fortunate children who entertained all with their songs and dances. Refreshments were served to the children by visiting UMK members.

The amount in the form of cheque was recently handed over to Sr Luciana Pinto, correspondent and superior of De Mercede Orphanage, in the presence of Sr Linette D’Souza (provincial), Sr Anita Pinto, officials, staff members and children of the orphanage. Snacks and soft drinks were served to all gathered by the visiting UMK members.

Henry Menezes of Manasa and Sr Luciana Pinto of De Mercede Orphanage thanked UMK and its generous supporters, keeping all in their prayers.

The visiting members representing UMK were Levnis Suares, Remy Cornelio, Hilda Cornelio, Vinnifred D’Souza, Robin Cornelio, Royston Cornelio, William Cornelio, Prashanth Ferrao and Stany D’Souza.

So far, UMK has contributed INR 75,84,476 in its mission to help the underprivileged.

On behalf of the UMK family, Gurkar (leader) Agnel Saldanha expressed his gratitude to all the generous sponsors, well-wishers, and the audience who whole-heartedly supported and encouraged UMK’s new faces and talents for the noble cause of UMK.