*TNN, Sep 24, 2010* NAVI MUMBAI: Tucked away among green paddy fields of Vangani village, New Panvel, is the 10-year-old ashram of SEAL (Social & Evangelical Association for Love), founded by Pastor K M Philip.
While the ashram's capacity is only 70 inmates, it today accomodates over 160 homeless persons. "We try not to say no to any homeless case. Very often, they are mentally ill, dirty and eaten by maggots. If everyone rejects them, they will die," the pastor said. Recently, a mute, mentally ill man was rescued by SEAL from Vashi railway station. Now named 'Suguna' (one who has good qualities), he looks radically different at the ashram. "If the Maharashtra government starts a few more ashrams in the city and suburbs, life will become better and warmer for the homeless," added Pastor Biju Samuel. Most of the rescued persons at the ashram are suicidal cases or just lost souls. "The happiest moment for us is when we are able to reunite a rescued man or woman with their family members who often give up searching for them, thinking they are dead," said Pastor Philip. http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/6617291.cms?prtpage=1 -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Mental Health Advocacy (News 'N Views) India" group. To post to this group, send email to [email protected] To unsubscribe from this group, send email to [email protected] For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/MhaNewsViewsIndia?hl=en ------------- Affiliated Groups : MENTAL HEALTH ADVOCACY INDIA [email protected] Discussions on mental health law / policy / plan monitoring / human rights etc [email protected] India-specific news and views related to mental health [email protected] Information and support to carers of people with mental health issues [email protected] Mutual support and sharing of experiential knowledge, skills and social learning amongst peers
