Ranchi: Considering the difficulties faced by the poor during the COID-19 pandemic, the Archdiocese of Ranchi today distributed dry rations packets for over 100 families of persons affected with HIV and those marginalized and poor in the compound of the Ranchi Archdiocesan social Development Centre (SDC). The food packets were arranged by the Archdiocese through generous donations from its benefactors, friends and well-wishers.
Ration packet contained rice, dal (pulses) spices (masala), soya beans (soya berry) oil, salt sufficient for about two weeks for a family of five. The programme was conducted through the help of the Ranchi Catholic Yuvak Sangh. The Nazareth sisters packed the packets. Kuldeep Tirkey, President of the Ranchi Catholic Yuvak Sangh introduced the programme to those present and explained the need of keeping social distancing and all safety precautions because of the pandemic. He also reminded that the archdiocese has been conducting many charitable programmes under the leadership of Archbishop Felix Toppo and Bishop Theodore Mascarenhas, SFX.
Bishop Theodore Mascarenhas SFX in his address to those present explained that the charity programmes of the Church do not look at caste, creed or tribe. “We look only at that in need and help those whom we can because there are good people who are generous to us and help us help the poor.”
Archbishop Felix Toppo SJ prayed for the people and wished that, “God protects and takes care of all his children as he loves all of us.” He also prayed for those whose generosity has made the distribution possible. The programme had already been scheduled and though the sad news of the death of Bishop Paul Lakra of Gumla had arrived, it was continued in a subdued way in order not to disappoint those who were called for the rations. During the distribution, a newly formed Catholic NGO called Tukra Charitable Trust distributed masks and sanitizers to over 100 persons. The chairman of the Trust Sony Priyanka Beck was also present. The youth were led by Fr. Roshan Tiru, Director of Ranchi Catholic Youth led the youth in the programme. Those involved in the programme were Bro. Nikhil Kujur, Bro. Walter Kispotta, Bro Ashim Minj, Mukti, Lourdes, Amber, Rashi and Sonu. Members of Snehadeep an NGO who look after HIV affected persons were also present.
During this week, the Archdiocese of Ranchi is planning more distributions for the poor and the marginalized in the city and the villages.
The photos have been clicked keeping in mind the privacy of the HIV-affected persons.
Fr. Sushil Toppo, Secretary Ranchi Archdiocese.