Main aim of the charity

The main aim of the charity is to provide dignity and care to the abandoned and uncared elderly and to the unclaimed dead

How the employee got involved and why

LIFE Trust charity is unique in the choice of its target beneficiaries: the uncared, abandoned old people and the unclaimed, abandoned dead. While helping the living is one thing, dealing with dead bodies is another- especially when the circumstances surrounding death are unpleasant and often, gruesome. LIFE Trust was founded by a lady whose marriage ended in a separation and a son to care for. The founder, Kalaivani found new meaning and purpose in her life by deciding to care not only for her son, but also for abandoned elders and the dead. Women in India do not normally enter cemeteries or crematoriums – which is why Kalaivani’s choice to deal with the dead is to break social taboo and show exemplary compassion and resolve. When news of LIFE Trust’s work reached me through my brother, its effect was almost instant: I knew I had to extend a helping hand to their salutary work. Distance and time which separated me and LIFE Trust meant that my contribution would be monetary, which I do as much as I can, whenever I can. LIFE Trust is not a “high profile” charity – its resources are meagre and they do not even have a website. They have been featured in the local press and television – they continue their extraordinary work, with little publicity! .

What work does the employee do for charity?

I support them with monetary contributions and keep in touch with them over phone and mail to follow their activities. I speak to my friends and family members to raise funds for them, especially during the Diwali festival season. Talking to people one-on-one This Diwali, they requested a hot water fountain, which I was happy to donate, in collaboration with another donor.

What impact would winning have on the charity?

During this Diwali festival season, LIFE Trust specifically said that they would prefer a hot water fountain over monetary contributions. This indicates that a proper “Needs Analysis” would be necessary closer to the time of disbursement. I also plan to visit them during my upcoming vacation which will help me to better understand their work and needs. One quick look at the slides will reveal that their needs are aplenty – their dormitories, bedding, amenities are so simple and basic and could do with an upgrade. The elderly residents will need to be fed, clothed and provided medical assistance. The team of volunteers who provide a dignified burial to the abandoned dead will need funds to cover related expenses. Money would go a long, long way to help them with their activities. The founder, Kalaivani also told me that she is a trained tailor and has trained many ladies in tailoring, which helps them earn their living. Imagine what a few sewing machines could do? I am hoping that LIFE Trust’s wonderful work will earn them the winning entry as their actions speak louder than my words. I must emphasize that a thorough needs analysis prior to disbursement would enable the most efficient way to use funds

What impact would winning have on the employee?

I sense a strong connection between the founding tenets of LIFE Trust and DHL’s core values: DIGNITY and RESPECT for all, regardless of age, status, colour, caste, creed or religion. To support LIFE Trust would be to acknowledge that we share the same values and we see ourselves in them and the communities they so passionately serve. Nothing would make a prouder employee! This would also empower me to reach out and help more actively and I will shout louder from every roof top that there is hope and love for the abandoned and uncared in every part of the world!

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