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Sri Chitra Home stands as a symbol of care, hope, and human compassion. Located in the heart of Kerala, this residential care facility has been a safe place for abandoned, destitute, and elderly individuals. Over the years, many real stories of transformation and kindness have emerged from its corridors. Each story reflects not only the resilience of those who live there but also the unconditional support offered by the caretakers, volunteers, and well-wishers.
Inspiring Journeys of the Residents
Ravi’s New Beginning
- A young boy named Ravi was left at the gates of Sri Chitra Home at the age of 10.
- A difficult past had taken away his ability to trust others.
- A counselor at the home noticed Ravi’s interest in painting and began encouraging him.
- Over time, Ravi’s walls came down, and he began painting regularly.
- Today, Ravi’s artwork is displayed in local galleries, and he teaches art to younger children.
Maryamma’s Second Life
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- An elderly woman, Maryamma, was rescued from a railway station by volunteers.
- A background of homelessness and illness had left her weak and hopeless.
- Medical care and emotional support helped her recover.
- Her love for gardening led to the creation of a herbal garden at her home.
- Now, Maryamma guides others in organic gardening workshops held at her home.
Daily Life and Community Bonding
Routine That Heals
- Residents follow a gentle and flexible daily schedule.
- Morning prayers, healthy meals, group walks, and hobby sessions create a balanced life.
- Volunteers from nearby colleges and organizations spend time teaching skills like basic English, yoga, and storytelling.
Celebration of Togetherness
- Birthdays, festivals, and anniversaries are celebrated with music, food, and shared memories.
- Residents actively prepare decorations and cook traditional dishes during Onam and Christmas.
- Cultural evenings provide a platform for residents to sing, dance, or recite poetry.
Weekly Activity Schedule at Sri Chitra Home
| Day | Morning Activity | Afternoon Activity | Evening Activity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | Group Yoga Session | Gardening & Maintenance | Movie Time |
| Tuesday | Art & Craft Workshop | Music Therapy | Book Reading Circle |
| Wednesday | Health Check-ups | Personal Time | Meditation & Reflection |
| Thursday | Storytelling & Sharing | Indoor Games | Folk Dance Practice |
| Friday | Language Learning Class | Drawing & Painting Session | Cultural Debate |
| Saturday | Outdoor Walk | Singing Practice | Festival Rehearsals |
| Sunday | Prayer & Bhajans | Special Meal Preparation | Open Mic Night |
Healing Through Hobbies
Art as a Form of Expression
- Painting, stitching, clay modeling, and knitting are taught regularly.
- Many residents use these as emotional outlets and also gift their creations to visitors.
- Sales from handmade goods help support the home financially.
Music That Comforts
- Weekly bhajan sessions bring peace to the minds of elderly residents.
- Some residents, trained in classical music, give informal lessons to others.
- The home has also produced its collection of recorded devotional songs.
Types of Hobbies and Resident Participation
| Hobby | Number of Participants | Benefits Observed |
|---|---|---|
| Knitting | 15 | Improved motor skills, sense of purpose |
| Gardening | 12 | Reduced anxiety, physical exercise |
| Singing | 10 | Emotional release, memory enhancement |
| Painting | 20 | Boosted creativity, social bonding |
| Clay Modeling | 8 | Hand-eye coordination, stress relief |
Volunteer and Donor Stories
Ramesh’s Weekend Visits
- A retired bank officer, Ramesh, visits every Saturday.
- He teaches basic math and shares stories from the newspaper.
- His presence is a source of comfort for many residents, especially those who miss family life.
Youth Group from Trivandrum
- A local college youth group organizes monthly talent shows.
- They bring clothes, books, and spend time listening to the residents.
- Several members have now chosen careers in social work after being inspired by their visits.
Impact of Medical and Emotional Support
Personalized Healthcare Plans
- Each resident receives individual care from a dedicated nurse and visiting doctors.
- Chronic illnesses like diabetes and hypertension are regularly monitored.
- Emergency services are connected with nearby government hospitals.
Emotional Support System
- Trained counselors meet residents weekly to check on their mental well-being.
- Therapy animals, such as dogs and rabbits, are brought in to cheer up residents.
- Meditation and spiritual talks also help in reducing feelings of loneliness.
Common Health Issues and Interventions
| Health Concern | Treatment Provided | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Diabetes | Insulin shots, Sugar-free diet | Daily |
| Arthritis | Physiotherapy, Pain relievers | Twice a week |
| Hypertension | Medication, Low-sodium meals | Monitored weekly |
| Depression | Counseling, Group therapy | Bi-weekly |
| Vision Problems | Free eye check-ups, Reading glasses | Once a month |
Success Stories that Inspire
Balan Becomes a Caretaker
- A former resident, Balan, who arrived 15 years ago as a teenager, now works as a caretaker.
- He pursued a diploma in elderly care with the help of donations.
- Balan’s journey from being a recipient to a giver has inspired many new residents.
Mini’s Story of Education
- Mini, a young girl who was abandoned by relatives, grew up in the home.
- Education support from donors helped her complete a nursing course.
- She now volunteers at the same home where she was raised.
In Summary
Sri Chitra Home is not just a shelter—it is a space where love, recovery, and growth bloom. The stories of its residents and the efforts of its staff reflect deep human values. Real change happens here, one small act of kindness at a time. Such heartwarming journeys are a reminder that compassion can truly rebuild lives.
