9 Years, 13 Homes of LoveA Home at 75: Don Bosco College Brings New Hope to Eliyamma

Iritty: At the age of 75, Eliyamma can finally rest with pride in her own home, along with her differently abled son. This house was lovingly built by the students and faculty of Don Bosco College, Angadikadavu, marking another milestone in the institution’s commitment to social responsibility.
Over the past nine years, Don Bosco College has constructed 13 houses for families in need. Eliyamma, who earlier lived in a single room rented house at Thottipalam in the 6th ward of Ulikkal Grama Panchayat, endured immense hardships throughout her life. Despite her own health issues, she struggled to care for her mentally challenged son. For 17 years, she lived in a shelter home in Iritty.

Her situation came to light through Biju Venganappally, Panchayat Member, who assured support and stood with her to turn the dream of a permanent home into reality. The land for the house was generously provided free of cost by Adv. Liz Mariya of the Kalarikkal family.

The NSS units of Don Bosco College included Eliyamma’s case under Kannur University’s Sneha Veedu Project, with active support from the Chitilappilly Foundation, which took the initiative in constructing the house. A dedicated committee was formed to oversee the project.

The house was built near Peratta Junction in Ulikkal Panchayat, and the key was officially handed over to Eliyamma by Block Panchayat Member Chacko Palakkalod.

The function was attended and addressed by Fr. Dr. Francis Karakkat, Principal of Don Bosco College, Angadikadavu; Fr. Joy Ullattil, Rector and Manager; Fr. Mathew Sasthampadavil, Parish Priest; Benny Antony Kandangeri, Chairman of the Committee; and Purushothaman Manalil, Committee Member. Jainy M. George and Amith Varma, Programme Officers of NSS, were also present.

The funds for the construction were raised by NSS volunteers through innovative initiatives such as the Coupon Challenge, Cake Challenge, and Payasa Challenge, reflecting the collective compassion and dedication of the student community.