Old age home for 350 abandoned elderly women

Year-End Gratitude and Winter Care Update – 2024

As 2024 draws to a close, we extend our deepest gratitude to all our friends, supporters, and donors on behalf of the 400 elderly, abandoned mothers who find refuge in our care. Your generosity and kindness continue to make a profound difference in their lives. Every thoughtful donation—whether large or small—helps ensure that these mothers are not only remembered but are also cared for with warmth, nourishment, and comfort. Your contributions provide them with cozy winter clothing, nutritious food, fresh fruits, milk, and the love and attention they need to stay healthy and safe during the cold months.

A Special Story of Resilience and Joy

As we reflect on the past year, I would like to share a beautiful story from our Vrindavan home. One of our oldest and most cherished residents, a widow mother, is about to celebrate her 106th birthday in early 2025. She has been a part of the Maitri Ashram (Old Age Home) since its inauguration in 2014, and her vibrant spirit continues to inspire all of us. Despite her age, she remains sprightly and agile, and her zest for life shines brightly.

For her upcoming milestone birthday, she has expressed her wish to celebrate with 106 balloons, a cake, and a variety of Indian delicacies, including kheer—a special Bengali dessert made with rice, jaggery, almonds, and cardamom. The celebrations will be lively, with drums and participation from the other mothers and caretakers. Her joy is infectious, and we are excited to make her wishes come true, thanks to your unwavering support.

Winter Care and Health Measures

As winter settles in Vrindavan, the temperature dips significantly, and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to the cold. Situated on the banks of the Yamuna River, the ashram is exposed to chilling winds, dense fog, and freezing temperatures. In these conditions, the elderly are at higher risk of catching colds, the flu, or more severe illnesses.

To safeguard their health, we have implemented various measures, including organizing additional medical camps, scheduling regular doctor visits, and providing warm clothing, blankets, and health supplements to boost their immunity. Every mother has been provided with sweaters, socks, and blankets, and we are currently raising funds to provide shawls and scarves. Given the need for spares to accommodate specific health situations, we aim to procure additional blankets.

Each of the mothers has also received a bottle of Chyawanprash, a popular Indian health supplement known for its immune-boosting properties.

Ongoing Care and Support

Looking ahead, we have scheduled more health camps in the coming weeks, with a focus on preventive care, early diagnosis, and prioritized treatment. Alongside medical attention, the care and love we provide are fundamental in ensuring the physical and mental well-being of the mothers as they brave the winter months.

With your continued support, we are confident that our mothers will not only weather the cold but will also look forward to the warmth of spring, greeted by smiles, good health, and the comfort of knowing they are loved and cared for.

On behalf of all the mothers at Maitri Ashram, we thank you for keeping them in your hearts and for making the coming year a little brighter and warmer for them.