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Spreading Warmth and Care: Madurai Urban Homeless Shelter Report (Dec 2024 – Jan 2025)

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At Care N Lift Foundation (CNLF), we remain committed to building a compassionate society where no one is left behind. Since taking responsibility for the Shelter for Urban Homeless at Tirunagar, Madurai, our team has worked tirelessly to ensure health, dignity, and holistic care for every resident.

This bimonthly report (Dec 2024 – Jan 2025) highlights our progress, celebrations, community engagements, and infrastructural developments that shaped these two months.


🌸 Celebrating Culture & Togetherness

Pongal Festival 2025

On 14th January 2025, the shelter celebrated Pongal with great enthusiasm. Residents actively participated in preparing traditional sweet Pongal, offering it to the Sun God, and sharing the festive meal.

  • Highlights:

    • Competitions in rangoli, embroidery, and letter writing.

    • Nearly 100 volunteers provided food, wheelchairs, and care.

    • Resident Mrs. Bibi John’s embroidery work was auctioned for ₹2,500, earning her pride and recognition.

This festival not only fostered unity but also filled our shelter with joy and cultural pride.

Karthigai Deepam Celebration

On 13th December 2024, inmates lit lamps throughout the shelter, symbolizing hope and positivity. The celebration strengthened spiritual connection and emotional well-being among residents.


🩺 Health & Medical Support

  • A medical camp at Amritha Amma Ashram identified two residents needing cataract surgery.

  • Mr. Veera Subramanian underwent a successful operation at Aravind Eye Hospital.

  • Although Ms. R.G. Jeyamani was advised surgery, her caretaker chose not to proceed.

This intervention highlights our ongoing focus on accessible healthcare for vulnerable elders.


🍲 Support & Donations

  • Lions Club Madurai of Thirunagar generously donated 36 lunch plates and 36 tea tumblers, improving our dining services and reducing costs.

  • Mrs. Semmalar, Professor at Loyola College, sponsored warm mufflers for all inmates, ensuring comfort during chilly winter nights.


🏠 Infrastructure Enhancements

To improve living conditions, several upgrades were implemented:

  • New grinder (Dec 2024): boosting kitchen efficiency.

  • Hot & cold water dispenser (Jan 2025): ensuring easy access to clean, temperature-regulated drinking water.

  • New geyser installation (Jan 2025): providing warm water for elderly residents.

These upgrades reflect our mission to create a safe, dignified, and nurturing environment.


👥 Community Engagements

  • On 12th January 2025, the Arulmigu Jothi Yoga Foundation hosted a debate on “Nuclear Family vs Joint Family.”

  • Residents participated actively, encouraging critical thinking, confidence, and social bonding.

Such activities enrich intellectual growth and foster a sense of belonging.


✅ Official Visit

On 29th January 2025, the Assistant City Health Officer inspected the shelter, ensuring hygiene and safety standards in key areas such as the kitchen, restrooms, and living spaces. Feedback from the inspection is already guiding improvements.


💙 Moving Forward

Over these two months, CNLF has:

  • Enhanced healthcare access for residents.

  • Improved infrastructure and hygiene facilities.

  • Celebrated festivals and cultural heritage with joy.

  • Strengthened community partnerships with NGOs, hospitals, and donors.

We extend heartfelt gratitude to our partners, supporters, and volunteers who continue to uplift the homeless with us. Together, we remain dedicated to building a future of dignity, safety, and compassion.