THE GOAN NETWORK
PANAJI
In an initiative towards building a more inclusive and compassionate society, the Mount Youth Association (MYA) at Chandor established ‘Hand of God - A Centre of Guidance, Healing and Hope’, a free child therapy and development centre for children with autism.
The centre was blessed by Auxiliary Bishop of Goa and Daman Simião Purificação Fernandes in the presence of guests, clergy members, well-wishers and supporters.
The initiative marks a milestone in the association’s commitment to supporting all children with special needs and ensuring that families have access to essential therapy and developmental services, irrespective of their financial circumstances.
A key person instrumental in making this dream a reality was Fr Jean Da Cruz Fernandes, Parish Priest of Nossa Senhora de Belem Church, Chandor. He stood firmly behind the vision of MYA President Domnick Mendes and his dedicated team, trusted the initiative and extended his wholehearted support.
The blessing ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including Fr Afzal Fernandes (Assistant Parish Priest of Chandor Church); Fr Ubaldo Fernandes (Parish Priest of St Sebastian Church, Aquem); Fr Mario Noronha (Parish Priest, Immaculate Conception Church Dabal); Vivek Kerkar (who has been supporting Mount Youth Association for 30 years); Dr Surendra Verenkar (benefactor of the centre); Derrick B Pereira (Sarpanch of Chandor); Milagrina Dcosta (Acting Sarpanch of Guirdolim).
The centre is envisioned as a place of guidance, healing, hope and support for children with autism and their families, ensuring that financial limitations do not deprive children of access to essential therapy and developmental assistance.
An important source of funding for this initiative was the donation coupon draw organised by MYA. The draw offered a bumper first prize of Rs 1 crore and 10 additional prizes of Rs 10 lakh each.
Through the funds generated from this initiative, the association was able to establish the Hand of God Child Development Centre.
In another act of social responsibility, MYA distributed 130 cheques of Rs 5,000 each to elderly and needy individuals, extending financial assistance to those who require support.
MYA has committed to continuing this financial assistance programme for the next 12 months, thereby providing regular financial support to the beneficiaries.
