Diocese to build 50 homes for Wayanad's survivors

Kozhikode: Bishop Mar Jose Porunnedom laid the foundation stone for the 50 homes being built by Mananthavady diocese at St Sebastian's school auditorium in Vazhavatta, Muttil panchayat for the survivors of Wayanad landslide. The diocese chose the people who lost their homes but did not qualify for govt aid. Construction of five houses is already underway in Thomattuchal, Puthiyidamkunnu and Kaniyaram.

The diocese raised funds for the project in collaboration with its parishes, Kerala Catholic Bishops Council, Kerala Social Service Forum, development agencies and individuals. Depending on the extent of loss, plots (5/10/15 cents) and homes ranging from 700 to 1,000 sq ft are being provided to survivors. The project area, named Christ Nagar Residence, will also include employment initiatives.

Porunnedom emphasized that the history of Christian faith is marked by resilience and divine resurrection. Auxiliary bishop Mar Alex Tharamangalam presided over the event. The meeting began with condolences on the demise of Pope Francis.

The diocese said its social service wing – Wayanad Social Service Society – has been actively providing assistance to the affected lot since the disaster happened. In phase-II, with financial support from Caritas India and others, an emergency financial aid of Rs 9,500/person and household items worth Rs 10,000 were provided to 958 families.

Additionally, the society in collaboration with Catholic Relief Services, ensured income enhancement programmes, worth Rs 57 lakh, for 307 families. Also, the diocese provided furniture worth Rs 50,000 each to 50 families and scholarships were given to 30 children for further education. It gave fixed deposits of Rs four lakh each to the children who lost their family members or homes.