The Awareness Meeting organized by the Senior Citizens' Association on 28/07/08 at 6.00 pm. drew a 'Full House' despite the rainy weather.
The Guest Speakers included, Mr. Hemang Desai of Dignity Foundation, and Sr. Inspectors, Mr. Prakash George & Mr. Gaekwad of the Bandra Police Station.
Mr. Desai highlighted the many services offered to Senior citizens by his Association; such as: preparation of I.D. Cards, job references & placement service for the retired, legal & finance investment advice, to name a few.
For those living alone: advice to ensure their security; references of electricians, plumbers, etc. whose background has been checked by the police.
He called for volunteers to serve as Dignity Wardens to assist 'Elders' living alone.
The Police Officers warned us not to employ house servants, & service providers like electricians, plumbers etc without checking their background.
They urged senior citizens, especially those living alone to register with their local police station, they would provide periodic visits by a police constable who could advice them on safety measures, & reassure them. Registration forms can be obtained from your representatives.
The police receive many complaints from Senior Citizens regarding harassment, by their children or relatives. These are Non-cognizable offences & the only action the police can take is to warn or offer advice. They can take firm action for Cognizable offences, which include assault & injury..
The Police also, require volunteers to assist & liason with them, in their service to Sr. citizens.
You may note the following tel. nos. which will surely be of use :-
Dignity Foundation : Tel : 23885253, 23885525.
Sr. Inspector P.M.George-Tel.: 26423122. 26423021.
Emergency 'Elder line' - Tel. : 1090 , to be used discreetly in real emergency.
Our grateful thanks to Allan Fernandes of the Sr. Citizens Association, & Fr. Joel Mascarenhas for making this Meeting possible.

-Harry D'Souza..

(P.S. At such meetings, not only views & opinions are exchanged, but umbrellas too. In case the gentleman is unhappy with his 'take-away' umbrella , he may contact this writer.)

Next Page

Page 1: The Birthday of our Blessed Mother

Page 2: Devotion to Mary
             Happy Feast

Page 3: My Mother and Yours
             What is the best Bible to read?

Page 4: Getting Involved
             Atrocities to Senior Citizens
             175th Birthday: Daughters of the Cross

Page 5: A Senior Citizen Complains
             The depressed man and his doctor
             Fr. Ribes speaks to a reporter

Page 6: Commandments for Heart and Home
             Drug Addict

Page 7: Lets think about this!
             Milestones

Page 8: Quiz