KOCHI: “We wish to have a big house and a land where we can do organic farming,” says Sharadha (76), an inmate at a old age home at Chembamukku near V B Garden residency.
“It’s been 10 years since I am with this family. Cooking everyday for my companions makes me happy,” added Sharadha.
The old age home is an initiative by a NGO - Hope Worldwide. The two-story building, which has been taken on lease is too small for the 16 inmates and the family of Lily Alex who is the Program Assistant of the old age home.
“Initially, we stayed at a rental house in Palarivattom, but as the owners asked us to vacate, we came here. This house is very congested for so many people,” said Lily Alex.
Sponsors and well wishers are the only helping hands for the inmates here. “Every month about `65,000 to `70,000 is required to meet the expenses, which includes the salary given to helpers and warden. There were times when we struggled for funds. But, luckily we never came across any difficulty when it came to provide food for the them for the past 11 years,” added Lily.
Christine Varghese (59) is all excited to meet her brother soon. “I was born and bought up in Bangalore. My brother is settled in Bangalore. So, during holidays he takes me home and I have great fun with my friends. Kochi is good but I miss my place,” added Christine (smiles)
“I am very happy here,” said Mary K A (72) when asked why she opted for an old age home when she had family to live with. “My family did not abandon me, this was my decision. After my son and daughter-in-law goes to office and my grandchild to school, I am all alone at home. So, I thought life here with many friends will be much better,” added Mary.
Watching serials, chatting and playing indoor games are the favorite pastime of the inmates. “The TV was gifted by a Malaysian businessman two years ago and last year he had also sponsored two cots,” added Lily.
Recollecting the memories, Mary George (70) said,”I worked as a typist for the Sub Divisional Magistrate in Thrippunithura, 40 years ago. As a single mother, I raised my two daughters with a lot of difficulties. They are well settled now. My daughters and grand children often come here. I don’t blame anyone for my situation, It’s my fate. Here I have a big family to look after me.”
Almost every inmate in the old age home is on some medication and Lily makes it a point to take utmost care of everyone. “As we don’t have a private vehicle, during emergencies the neighbours help us to take the inmates to the hospital,” emphasized Lily. One of their neighbours allotted them a banana plantation to look after and reap the benefits.
Dreaming of a bigger accommodation facility, all the 16 women settled down to pray while Lily and her daughter set off for a prayer meeting nearby.