THODU NEEDA
Thodu Needa, an organisation meant for bringing lonely senior citizens together either through marriage or through live-in arrangements or just taking part in week long yatras and outings, is now eight years old. It was started by MN Rajeshwari, a retired teacher who had lost her husband. Mr Rajesh of HelpAge helped her get started by getting the NGO registered and by offering publicity and helping her get noticed by public and the press. Initially she faced a lot of criticism as the idea was new, revolutionary and unacceptable to many. And an initiative coming from a single woman was unthinkable. Despite all troubles she stood firm, conducted a number of get together for interested seniors, facilitated their marriage, provided a home for companionship living etc. She received thereafter encouragement from many including press and media. The undivided AP Govt awarded her in 2013.
Amulya Vinaya of Ahmadabad is the forerunner of Thodu Needa. I showed interest in the movement, right from its starting, essentially because the project aimed at loneliness mitigation of the elderly. A community center for day care and for living as companions was started in 2014. I attended many meetings and get together conducted by Thodu Needa though I was not a 'candidate' myself at any time. During 2017 annual meet some 400 persons participated. THat shows how the organisation has grown. Now see a video depicting the story of the novel venture.
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