Activities – Snehan

Inspiring Visitor Yoshimi & Peter to Snehan Home

Snehan — Wed, 08 Apr 2026 15:20:13 +0000

The recent visit by Yoshimi and Peter to Snehan Home was a source of deep inspiration for both our staff and beneficiaries.

Yoshimi, a 2009 Kanthari participant, works in rural villages of Thailand in educating poor children. Peter, who lost his eyesight at the age of one due to eye cancer, shared his remarkable journey of choosing journalism as his profession. He worked for many years in the field before retiring, and his story of resilience and determination touched everyone present.

We spent over two hours exchanging ideas and learning about each other’s projects. Peter asked thoughtful questions to Anumuthu, seeking to understand his passion for serving the neglected homeless. Their curiosity was met with heartfelt answers, and they left motivated by the vision behind Snehan’s mission.

Yoshimi and Peter were also excited to experience Snehan’s EV-Auto drive. At one point, Peter sat in the driver’s seat, feeling its shape and design to understand how it works. This simple moment brought joy to everyone around.

Their visit reminded our staff and residents that every life carries lessons worth learning. The fact that they travel across countries, stay in hotels, and visit places like Snehan was eye-opening for many of our people. Truly, their presence was a gift of encouragement, and we remain open to learning from every encounter.

Where Challenges Meet Compassion

Snehan — Sat, 04 Apr 2026 06:24:37 +0000

Vani is a cheerful woman whose life has been weighed down by family burdens for many years. Her husband has been battling kidney failure for over a decade, surviving only through weekly dialysis. Every sip of water, every bite of food is carefully measured for his survival. This relentless struggle has kept the family trapped in poverty and unemployment.

Much of Vani’s time is spent in hospitals caring for her husband. Because of her frequent absences, finding steady work has always been difficult—farm owners and employers hesitate to hire someone who cannot commit to regular hours.

In the past, Vani worked with Snehan, but left in search of better opportunities. Unfortunately, her unavoidable leaves led to dismissal from that job as well. Recently, she returned to us, seeking support once again. This time, Snehan Tailoring welcomed her wholeheartedly. Here, she has found a place where she can work with dignity, while still having the freedom to take leave whenever her husband needs her.

At Snehan, we believe employment should adapt to the realities of life. Our projects are designed to support the needy by understanding their struggles and giving them the liberty to work without fear. This simple approach has touched many lives—people appreciate it, and they love being part of our mission.

We at Snehan value every individual, striving to uplift them so they can live with joy, dignity, and hope.

Unlocking the Power of Local Fundraising: Lesions from Dhwani Foundation

Snehan — Sat, 28 Mar 2026 06:13:35 +0000

Snehan recently had the privilege of participating in a three-day residential training on effective fundraising methods, organized by Dhwani Foundation. With 32 NGOs and 65 participants gathered, the experience was nothing short of eye-opening.

For years, many of us in the nonprofit sector have leaned heavily on foreign aid, government grants, or CSR funds. Yet, this training challenged that mindset and revealed a simple but powerful truth: local individual support is far more effective, sustainable, and free from restrictions.

The facilitators demonstrated convincing, practical methods that showed how communities themselves can become the backbone of lasting change. By mobilizing local donors, NGOs can generate funds of any scale and use them flexibly to meet urgent needs. This approach not only reduces dependency but also strengthens the bond between organizations and the people we serve.

At Snehan, we returned inspired and energized. Immediately, we began designing posters and fundraising schemes to put these insights into action. We believe this shift will help us meet our daily needs more reliably and expand our reach to many more vulnerable beneficiaries in Puducherry.

This training was not just about fundraising—it was about empowering NGOs across India to create everlasting social change. By tapping into the generosity of local communities, we can build a stronger, more resilient support system for those who need it most.

Snehan is deeply grateful to Dhwani Foundation for this transformative experience. With these tools in hand, we are confident that together, NGOs can multiply impact and restore dignity to countless lives.

Restoring Dignity: Gandhi’s Journey with Snehan Home

Snehan — Sat, 21 Mar 2026 06:06:21 +0000

At 74 years old, Mr. Gandhi’s life has been marked by both resilience and hardship. Originally from Madurai, he is a widower with three children, each married and living in their own homes. After the passing of his wife, Gandhi moved to Pondicherry, working in various professions to sustain himself. A few years ago, his path crossed with Pastor Ilavarasan, a humble servant leading a small church and dedicating his life to supporting blind and disabled individuals in his community. Under the pastor’s care, Gandhi found shelter and compassion. But life dealt him another blow, he suffered a fall that caused a blood clot, leaving him without memory for weeks. Pastor Ilavarasan and his family stood by him, providing medical care and emotional support during this difficult time.

Recognizing Gandhi’s need for long-term residential care, Pastor Ilavarasan reached out to Snehan Home. After learning about Gandhi’s condition, Snehan Home welcomed him with open arms, offering both medical support and a safe place to live. Sadly, Gandhi’s children, constrained by poverty and family circumstances, expressed that they could not take him back home. They even requested that, should any unfortunate event occur, Snehan Home perform his last rites. While this reality is heart-breaking, it underscores the importance of places like Snehan Home where dignity, acceptance, and love are restored to those who have nowhere else to turn.

Today, Gandhi is receiving the care he needs, surrounded by compassion and respect. His story is not unique many others like him find refuge and renewed hope at Snehan Home. At Snehan Home, we believe every life has value. Supporting individuals like Gandhi is not just about providing shelter it’s about restoring dignity, offering acceptance, and reminding them that they are not forgotten.

Aadhaar Support for Snehan Home Beneficiaries

Snehan — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 06:37:32 +0000

At Snehan Home in Puducherry, we provide short-term residential care and support for neglected, sick, and dying destitute individuals. Each year, nearly 50 people receive medical care, regain their health, and step back into society with renewed dignity.

Yet, one of the biggest challenges we face is the lack of identity documents among those we rescue. Without an Aadhaar card, even basic government services—including medical treatment at government hospitals—remain out of reach. The absence of ID proof also creates heartbreaking complications; if someone were to pass away at our campus, we would struggle even to arrange a dignified burial.

Recognizing this urgent need, we approached the Puducherry Social Welfare Department for help. To our great relief, our request was warmly accepted. Officials travelled all the way from Bengaluru to assist us in applying for Aadhaar cards for our residents. Soon, 11 of our beneficiaries will receive their Aadhaar cards—a milestone that opens doors to healthcare, welfare schemes, and the recognition of their rightful identity.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Soloman from the Social Welfare Department, Puducherry, for guiding us through the legal process and ensuring everything was done properly. Our sincere thanks also go to the Director and Deputy Director of the Social Welfare Department for their kind support.

This step may seem small, but for our residents, it is life-changing. An Aadhaar card is more than just an ID—it is a symbol of belonging, dignity, and hope for a better tomorrow.

Transforming Care Through Geriatric Training: Snehan Home’s Journey

Snehan — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 06:47:58 +0000

Snehan administrative staffs often face challenges in understanding the emotional and behavioral patterns of elderly individuals. Their moods fluctuate—joyful one moment, irritable the next. At times they are warm and friendly, but later may become argumentative. Forgetfulness is also common: leaving taps open, lights and fans running despite repeated reminders. Incidents such as bedwetting or neglecting to dress properly can be distressing for caregivers, often leading to frustration and strain within the management team.

When the invitation for this training arrived, we immediately prioritized it above all other commitments. It proved to be one of the most valuable programs we have attended on geriatric care. The sessions covered a wide range of essential topics, including:

Healthy Aging
Understanding Aging and Its Impact
Institutional Governance & Regulatory Compliance
From Neglect to Empowerment
Mental Health
Understanding Mental Health in Elders
Compassionate Palliative Care

Each subject provided profound insights into the realities of aging and practical strategies for supporting elders with dignity and compassion. By the conclusion of the training, our perspective had shifted—we now approach every resident of Snehan Home with deeper empathy and patience. What once felt like shortcomings are now understood as part of the aging process, to be met with love and care.

The program brought together around 50 participants from Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, all of whom returned to their organizations equipped with valuable skills and renewed commitment.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to HelpAge India for organizing this exceptional initiative. It has empowered us to strengthen our caregiving practices and ensure that Snehan Home continues to be a place where every individual is treated with respect, compassion, and dignity.

From Storm to Shelter: Annamalai’s Journey with Snehan Home

Snehan — Wed, 25 Feb 2026 06:59:35 +0000

In November 2025, Pondicherry was battered by heavy rains. Amidst the downpour, a man named Annamalai lay shivering on the streets, covered only by a thin cotton bedsheet. With no roof over his head, no food to sustain him, and his health deteriorating from fever and cold, his life was hanging by a thread.

Annamalai’s story is one of hardship. A few months earlier, an accident left him disabled. Struggling with alcohol addiction, he lost his sense of orientation and stability. It was then that the Grand Bazaar police noticed his desperate condition. Recognizing the urgency, they reached out to Snehan Home for help. Our team immediately stepped in, rescuing Annamalai from the streets and providing him with shelter, medical care, and the warmth of human compassion.

At the hospital, doctors discovered that Annamalai was battling multiple health challenges—eye and ear problems, psychiatric issues. With consistent medical treatment, nutritious food, and emotional support, he began his journey of recovery.

But Annamalai’s heart longed for more than just healing. He wanted to be reunited with his three children, who themselves were living homeless on the streets. With his health restored and his spirit strengthened, Snehan Home helped bring his children back to him, giving them the chance to rebuild their lives together.

Today, Annamalai stands as a symbol of resilience and hope. His story reminds us that behind every person on the street lies a life worth saving, a family worth restoring, and a future worth believing in.

At Snehan Home, we are committed to rescuing and rehabilitating destitute individuals like Annamalai. Through shelter, medical care, and emotional support, we strive to restore dignity and give second chances.

Snehan Home: A Sanctuary of Healing and Hope

Snehan — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 05:54:38 +0000

At Snehan Home, our commitment is simple yet profound: to save and restore the lives of society’s most deprived and forgotten individuals. Many of those we welcome have endured rejection—often cast out by families when addiction or hardship takes hold. On the streets, we meet people from vastly different backgrounds, each with unique languages, religions, habits, skills, and ways of living. These differences could divide us, but compassion bridges the gap. By listening and understanding, we provide care tailored to each individual’s needs.

A Campus Alive with Healing

Snehan Home is more than a shelter—it is a vibrant, life-giving campus. Surrounded by trees and filled with the sounds of friendly animals—dogs, turkeys, country chickens, and lovebirds—the environment itself becomes part of the healing process. Many who arrived at death’s door have found new strength here. Our dedicated staff, guided by compassion, offer constant care, protection, and the essentials of daily life. These are simple yet vital supports form the foundation of recovery.

Health and Wholeness

Every three months, our residents undergo basic medical check-ups. These assessments help us provide the right diet and medication, while also empowering individuals to take charge of their own health. Knowing whether they are fit or unfit encourages them to make positive choices toward a healthier life.

Love as the Greatest Medicine

At Snehan Home, we believe healing is not only physical but deeply emotional and spiritual. Through love, care, and dignity, we create an environment where broken lives are restored. Each act of compassion ripples outward, reminding us that together we can build a better world.

Honoring Humanity: Mr.Subramani’s Journey at Snehan Home

Snehan — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 07:08:17 +0000

Mr. Subramani, affectionately called thatha, is over 80 years old and was rescued and admitted to Snehan Home through the Social Welfare Department eight months ago. When he arrived, he was seriously ill—bedridden, wounded, and suffering from rat bites. With timely medical care, nutritious food, and loving support, he gradually regained his health. He now eats well and enjoys the warmth of our community.

In the past month, however, age has made him fully dependent for all his daily needs. Despite our efforts, we could not trace his family, and other hospice homes declined to accept him in this condition. Yet Snehan Home did not give up. We believe every person deserves dignity, love, and care simply because they are human. With this conviction, we appointed a caregiver with a motherly heart to support him. He now receives regular medicine, meals at his bedside, and round the clock hygiene care.

At Snehan, we value every individual. To us, being human is enough to deserve compassion. We are honored to walk with Mr. Subramani in his final days, ensuring he experiences a dignified ending surrounded by love and respect.

Snehan Home happy to Welcome Vriksh Team

Snehan — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 07:17:04 +0000

It was a moment of deep gratitude as Mr. Ashish Arora, the visionary founder of the Vriksh Fellowship, journeyed from the hills of Himachal Pradesh to Pondicherry for the very first time. His visit to Snehan Project filled him with delight as he witnessed the humble yet determined efforts that have been nurtured here. Accompanying him were Mr. Raju Chander and Mrs. Vyjayanthi—two noble souls whose generosity and guidance have been a guiding light for the Fellowship. Their hearts were touched to see how far Snehan has come: from its early days with only a handful of residents and minimal staff, to now standing as a growing home of dignity and progress.

As fellows from South India, we shared our stories—our projects, the milestones achieved over the past year, the challenges faced, and the dreams we continue to chase. The Vriksh Team listened with encouragement, their presence reminding us that we are never alone in this journey. Their willingness to uplift us to the next stage is a gift beyond measure for every fellow.

The Fellowship itself is a lifeline for social change makers like me. Many of us carry a burning passion to transform society, yet family responsibilities often dim that fire. Vriksh steps in at such moments, offering not just motivation but also a monthly stipend for two years—an anchor that allows us to stay true to our calling and continue serving the marginalized with courage and hope.

Today, I bow in gratitude to their noble work. Their support strengthens my resolve to carry forward this humble mission with greater impact. I wholeheartedly encourage every Indian social visionary who carries the spark of change in their heart to reach out and embrace this fellowship. It is more than support—it is a hand that lifts you when you stumble, a voice that reminds you your passion matters, and a light that guides you to keep serving humanity.