Pics: Dayanada Kukkaje
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (DV)
Mangaluru, Mar 12: Foundation stone was laid for the construction of a shelter home for the homeless, "United Homes", a project by the United Friends Trust in Abettu here on Sunday, March 12. During the auspicious occasion, parish priest, St Anthony's Church, Fermai, Fr Dr Mark Castelino, and principal of Lourdes Central School, Fr Robert D'Souza performed a prayer.
President of Meramajal Gram Panchayat, Jayashree Karkera, said that there are many rich people in society, but only a few lend their hands to help the needy. However, United Friends Trust has come forward with the noble initiative project United Homes with the intent to provide homes for the homeless.
"This is possible because of the far vision, sacrifice, and selfless service of the United Friends Trust to society. Really, it is a matter of pride that the United Friends Trust opted for a place in Meeramajal Grampanchayat to materialize their dream project.
No one will be permanent, and no one knows how long they will be on this earth. But still, people are busy accumulating assets and property. A person may be rich enough to afford things, but they will be remembered for their service to society.
United Friends Trust, with a motherly heart, has come forward to help the homeless by building houses," she added.
She also recalled how Mother Theresa is etched the hearts and minds of people through her selfless service and charity.
Speaking on the occasion, Managing director of Daijiworld Media Private Limited, Walter Nandalike, said, "United Friends Trust is a unique team, and the members, irrespective of caste, are so actively involved in helping society. And they are accessible anytime to help the needy."
"We should not forget these three types of people in life: those who help us in our hard times, those who go away during our hard times, and those who put us in hard times. You can forgive the last two sections of people, but do not forget them," he said.
"Through social service, United Friends Trust provides love and care for the needy in society. At the end of life, we leave only the good things that we have done for society. The accumulated assets, wealth, ego, selfishness, and muscle power will remain futile.
Helping the have-nots gives us happiness, and trusts like United Friends Trust are an inspiration and role model in society," , he added.
Parish priest of St Anthony's Church Fermai, Fr Dr Mark Castelino, chairman of MCC Bank Anil Lobo Fermai, and others also spoke on the occasion.
Principal of Lourdes Central School, Fr Robert D'Souza, in a presidential address, said, "The upcoming project in this place amidst the greenery will provide a homely ambiance to the people who live in this shelter home.
With a noble cause and good intentions, United Friends Trust is coming up with a shelter home for the homeless. This is possible because of the hard work and sacrifices of the United Friends Trust. Selfless social service will always be rewarded by God."
Secretary of United Friends Trust, Sylvester Lobo briefed about the rise of United Friends Trust and its social service in various fields, including sports, economics, education, and other fields in the past 30 years.
President of United Friends Trust, C J Lobo, welcomed and convener Arun Rodrigues proposed a vote thanks. Lancy D'Souza served as emcee during the event.