Deputy Director of Social Welfare, K. Wango Langsym speaking at the 20th Foundation Day of Good Samaritan Senior Citizens’ Home, Meriema on August 1.
Morung Express News
Kohima | August 1
From what started in a rented building at D’Block Kohima “with much prayer, commitment and dedication by taking dare steps and great risks by faith,” the Good Samaritan Senior Citizens’ Home, Meriema today achieved a remarkable milestone as it celebrated its 20th Foundation Day at the Senior Citizens’ Home in Meriema.
Founder & Chairperson of GSWS, Neithonuo Liegise remarked that, “we have a great reason to celebrate the goodness and faithfulness of God for what He has done greatly in two decades since its inception in 2005.”
Looking back at the two decades of managing the Home, she said, “I am amazed at the miracle-working hand of God. I don’t have to draw water from a deep well and carry it on my head. I no longer spend my time mopping rough and muddy floors or walking kilometers with bags of rations on both shoulders to reach Senior Citizens’ Home.”
Stating that “I can finally sleep through the night without worrying about the huge debts from the project,” she testified that God has enabled them to care for hundreds, offer shelter, nutrition, medical aid, and a dignified farewell to those who passed under their care.
She said this milestone belongs to every supporter, staff member, well-wisher and her family who stood by her. “Together, we have proven that compassion, when shared, becomes powerful,” she said.
Founded with the theme, “Into the Sunset with Dignity” to ensure that every elderly person is treated with love, respect and care, she also underlined that, “aging should never mean being forgotten.” She also asserted that, “it is our shared duty as a society to stand by our seniors, to honour their lives and to help them age with grace.”
Despite the struggle of moving from one rented place to the other in the initial years, Liegise thanked the state government and the Chief Minister of Nagaland, Neiphiu Rio for allotting 1 acre of land in its present location. There are currently 25 elderly residents, which is also the full capacity of the Home.
Addressing the Foundation Day as the chief guest, Deputy Director of Social Welfare, K Wango Langsym congratulated Neithonuo Liegise for achieving this milestone and for having the vision of starting the Home 20 years ago. Further lauding the caregivers, he encouraged them by saying, “let us not grow weary in doing good” while requesting the senior citizens to also pray for the new generation of Nagas.
He further highlighted some of the departmental activities related to the senior citizens and assured the continued support of the department in whatever way possible.
Speaking as the Guest of Honour, Dr Pihoto Khala, President of Senior Citizens Association of Nagaland (SCAN) noted that, “20 years of enjoyment may seem to pass very quickly but 20 years of struggle and hardship is very long.” He expressed his deep appreciation to Neithonuo Liegise and her team of caregivers for their dedication and encouraged them to continue doing the good work.
Pointing out that it is not a single day’s work, he also noted that, “because you have surrendered everything to God, He has blessed you.”
While describing it as a “great humanitarian Ministry to serve these weak and fragile elderly without remorse or hesitation”, Asono Ndang, President, ZBCC WD underscored that, “the need for this kind of facility is increasing day by day because the younger generation are too busy to give time and proper care to their aging parents.”
She noted that as people grow older, their needs and care also increase with gradual decline in their cognitive health and challenges of mobility. However, taking in all these challenges, she said that the Good Samaritan Senior Citizens’ Home has provided them with all their physical, mental, emotional and social needs.
“With full conviction and dedication, you have vowed to render not only your time and energy but you have given your best to be a ‘Beacon or Light’ to this elderly group of people”, she expressed. She also exuded hope that God would continue to bless and guide them.
Highlights of the event included invocation by Pastor Avi Zao, Faith Harvest Church, Kohima, welcome address by Sentienla Theunuo, General Secretary, GSWS, solo by Pezet Newme, male voice by Thepfulhou Theunuo & friends and vote of thanks by Wekupe Kromi, Office Assistant, Senior Citizens’ Home while the programme was led by Ruvuorienuo Juliana, Executive Member, GSWS.
