- Oct 1, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 5
We are proud to announce a major milestone in our mission to serve the destitute. In partnership with Dream India Network, Anora Charitable Foundation (ACF), through its Reach Lives project, has launched its first home for the homeless in the state of Goa. This new home will soon provide essential support to those in need, offering a safe haven with access to healthcare, shelter, and nutrition.
The inauguration ceremony was graced by the Honorable Member of Parliament for South Goa, Captain Viriato Fernandes. A highly respected figure, MP Fernandes has a distinguished background as a former naval officer, having served in the Indian Navy for 26 years, including during the Kargil War. He is known for his commitment to social causes and his dedication to raising the voices of Goa's people in Parliament. His involvement in grassroots movements and environmental activism has made him a leader who champions the rights of the underserved and marginalized​.
Addressing the Crisis of Homelessness and Poverty in India
India faces a staggering homelessness and poverty crisis. Millions of people across the country struggle daily without access to basic necessities such as food, shelter, and healthcare. According to recent estimates, over 1.8 million people in India are homeless, while millions more live in extreme poverty, vulnerable to hunger and preventable diseases. In Goa, a state known for its tourism, the hidden reality of poverty often gets overlooked. Homeless individuals are left to fend for themselves on the streets, exposed to the elements and living in unsafe conditions.
This crisis isn’t just about lack of resources—it’s a systemic issue that requires the collective effort of multiple stakeholders. While government programs have made progress in addressing these issues, they cannot solve the problem alone. The need is vast, and the resources are often stretched thin. To truly tackle homelessness and poverty, collaboration between the government, NGOs, and the private sector is essential.
Why Collaborative Action is Key
Homelessness is not just a symptom of poverty—it perpetuates the cycle. Those living on the streets are more susceptible to illness, malnutrition, and exploitation. Taking people off the streets is one of the critical first steps in breaking this cycle. By providing safe and stable housing, we create the foundation for individuals to access healthcare, education, and job opportunities. This is why the work ACF is doing, in collaboration with Dream India Network and other partners, is so crucial.
Our new home in Goa is more than just a shelter—it is a stepping stone to a better future for those who have been left behind. We believe that providing a safe, supportive environment helps people regain their dignity, rebuild their lives, and re-integrate into society.
ACF’s Commitment to Expanding Reach Lives
Launching this home in Goa is just the beginning. We are working on several new projects across India as part of Reach Lives, continuing to expand our reach and impact. Our goal is to take more people off the streets and into homes where they can thrive.
We are incredibly grateful to Dream India Network for partnering with us on this mission, and we look forward to working with more organizations to create lasting change. As we expand our work, we call on others—businesses, community leaders, and individuals—to join hands in combating homelessness and poverty.
Together, we can make a difference.
To learn more about Reach Lives and how you can support our initiatives, visit www.reachlives.com.
