Even though the elderly population is rapidly growing in Nepal and the traditional norms and family value systems are changing, there are few old age homes^[1] in Nepal. And yet, some community initiatives, such as Mata Tirtha Old Age Home, are highly admirable.

Mata Tirtha Old Age Home was established in 1997 in order to provide shelter to 25 women over the age of 65, no matter their religion, ethnicity, or health issues. The home has a mission to care for needy women without shelter, without guardians and in need of care and attention. Mata Tirtha Old Age Home provides these women food, shelter, clothing, as well as health services, religious and entertainment programs. Mata Tirtha’s team is family for these residents.

Mata Tirtha has the ability to fully support these 25 senior women due to the generosity and solidarity of many agencies and individuals. Shenpen has been offering support since 2013 by providing a daily hot meal to all the residents. MataTirtha Old Age Home is a living example of altruism in action.

My Name is Surya Maya and I Live Happily in Mata Tirtha Old Age Home

“My name is Surya Maya and I am 83 years old. For a while now, I have lived in Mata Tirtha Old Age Home”.

Surya Maya’s life has been difficult. She struggled to raise her two children alone. Now that she cannot earn a living, she must depend on her children. She used to live with her son and daughter-in-law, but life there wasn’t easy. Surya Maya was beaten by her daughter-in-law and deprived of food. At some point she decided to leave home and began living on the street.

On a miraculous day, a policeman found her and referred her to Mata Tirtha Old Age Home who unconditionally welcomed her. Surya Maya’s long-time dream came true: having a place to call home, a place where she could be with other people and eat her meals with them. She is thankful for having a roof over her head, a comfortable bed, good food every day, and people who care for her.

Generosity, driven by love and compassion, can make a huge impact on the well-being of destitute people and communities. By supporting local, direct and durable initiatives such as Mata Tirtha Old Age Home, it is possible to change the lives of others for the better.

^[1] The Pashupatinath Old Age Home is only one public old age home for elderly. Otherwise, it is estimated that 1,500 senior citizens live in other old age homes run by charitable organizations across the country.