Sri Sathya Sai Orphanage Trust - Kerala

Within Kerala, there exists the Old Age Home For Men, a sanctuary exclusively dedicated to senior citizens who have been abandoned by their own families. This region faces the unfortunate challenge of witnessing an ever-increasing number of elderly individuals left in dire need of care and assistance, often without familial support. In such trying circumstances, Saketham emerges as a beacon of hope, extending its compassionate arms to provide solace to these ageing souls, easing the burden of their profound loneliness and the heartache of abandonment.

Within the serene confines of Sai Gramam lies a haven of contentment for elderly women known as Sayoojyam. Here, many aged women find joy in their daily lives. Some of these mothers, now enjoying the comforts of Sayoojyam, once endured the hardships of homelessness. In the twilight of their years, they revel in the rediscovery of happiness within Sayoojyam's embrace. Mothers with remarkable artistic talents take pleasure in showcasing their vocational skills, tailored to their physical abilities. Sayoojyam received its formal inauguration by the renowned playback singer, Sri. S.P. Balasubrahmanyam and similar units are also operational in the Kottayam district of Kerala.

Sai Gramam boasts a state-of-the-art Agro Farm, occupying an expansive 5000 square feet area, meticulously dedicated to the cultivation of vegetables through advanced agricultural techniques. This high-tech farming effort ensures a bountiful harvest, effectively fulfilling Sai Gramam's daily vegetable requirements with the produce cultivated on-site.

At Sai Gramam, there is a dedicated residence known as Santhwanam, specifically designed to house differently abled boys. Presently, it shelters 12 young boys, providing them with tailored training that suits their individual abilities. Upon successful completion of their training, these individuals are not left uncertain about their future; instead, they are integrated as assistants in various ongoing projects at Sai Gramam. The management of Santhwanam is overseen by two capable wardens, responsible for its operations and other related activities. This commendable effort in effectively rehabilitating these boys has garnered widespread recognition, even prompting the State Government to request Sai Gramam to accommodate more such individuals.

Sai Gramam's healthcare services include a Palliative Care Unit, providing free medical care such as consultations, medications, and ongoing support for financially disadvantaged residents in the vicinity. The Sai Care Home in Venjarammoodu, Thiruvananthapuram, aids individuals recovering from mental health issues. In collaboration with the Sri Sathya Sai Orphanage Trust - Kerala, it offers rehabilitation training to patients discharged from the Mental Health Centre, ensuring their successful return to normal life. Sai Gramam also operates a crucial free ambulance service, particularly benefiting the impoverished rural population in remote areas. For those aged 45 and above with physical disabilities, Saphalyam provides long-term residence, made possible through collaboration with the District Panchayat, Thiruvananthapuram, and the Kerala State Handicapped Persons Welfare Corporation.

Within the Mudakkal Panchayat, where Sai Gramam is situated, a distinctive no-cost training initiative is available for local women. This programme equips them with skills in crafting using yarns and fibres, fostering opportunities for income generation. The vocational training encompasses various trades, including banana fibre craft, tailoring, and embroidery. Additionally, the Trust administers the Mahila Samakhya project, offering free training in these trades along with paper bag manufacturing, exclusively catering to women facing adversity. This initiative receives support from the Kerala Mahila Samakhya Society under the Women Empowerment scheme by the Government of India.