Introduction: A Fitting Tribute to a Legend

On August 25, 2024, the 114th birthday of St. Mother Teresa was celebrated with immense reverence and grandeur at the Mother Teresa Foundation. The event was a heartfelt tribute to the legendary saint, who dedicated her life to serving the underprivileged. The celebration brought together dignitaries, community leaders, and beneficiaries to honor her legacy of compassion, service, and humanity.

Dignitaries Gracing the Occasion

The event was presided over by Mr. Durai Chandrasekaran, MLA, Thiruvaiyaru, in the presence of Dr. Renuka Oliver, a member of the Tamil Nadu Widows and Abandoned Women Welfare Board, and Mr. S. Murasoli, MP, Thanjavur, who graced the occasion as honorary guests. The stage was adorned by Mr. S. Arul Soosai, Founder of the Max Arul Foundation, Veerakurichi, as the chief guest. Mrs. Barathy Baskar, a renowned speaker, delivered a keynote address that highlighted the significance of humanism in today’s world. The event was further blessed by Rev. Fr. S. Joseph Kulandhasisamy. Special invitees included Rtn. Dr. M. Natarajan, Former Rotary District Governor, and Rtn. NT. Balasundaram, Former President of the Thanjavur Chamber of Commerce.

Foundation’s Initiatives: Empowering the Underprivileged

Our Chairman, in his welcome address, detailed the various projects undertaken by the Mother Teresa Foundation, aimed at uplifting the underprivileged communities. He emphasized the Foundation’s unwavering commitment to providing educational opportunities, livelihood support, and healthcare services to those in need.

• Scholarships for the Needy: In a significant gesture, the Foundation provided scholarships to 200 children from orphaned, single-parent, and economically disadvantaged families. These scholarships will support the students at both school and college levels, enabling them to pursue their education without financial burdens.

• Honoring Outstanding Students: The Foundation recognized the achievements of outstanding students covered under the Mother Teresa Scholarship Program. These students were awarded cash prizes for their academic excellence, motivating them to continue striving for success.

Support for Widows: Empowering Women for Sustainable Livelihoods

The Foundation’s commitment to empowering widows was evident in the various initiatives launched during the event.

• Livelihood Support: Widows were provided with motorized sewing machines and push carts to enable them to start or sustain their own businesses. These tools are intended to help them achieve a sustainable livelihood, fostering independence and self-reliance.

• Support for Sustainable Livelihoods: Push carts were provided to blind beneficiaries, enabling them to run businesses independently for sustainable livelihoods. Additionally, knee-ankle-foot orthosis (KAFO) devices were given to individuals unable to walk due to accidents, and a tricycle was provided to one differently-abled person to aid in their daily mobility.

• Single Mother Care Identity Cards: The Foundation issued Single Mother Care Identity Cards to widows, enabling them to receive treatment at concessional rates at the Mother Teresa Health Centre. This initiative ensures that these women have access to affordable healthcare, an essential aspect of their well-being.

• Special Gifts: To mark the occasion, special gifts were distributed to the widows, bringing joy and a sense of belonging to the beneficiaries.

• Formation of Widows’ Groups: The Foundation facilitated the formation of widows’ groups for single mothers from Kottaikadu village Pudukottai District, Devadhanam Village, Thiruvarur District. These groups are designed to foster mutual support among the women, particularly in their business ventures.

King Solomon Award: Recognizing Community Contributions

In recognition of their invaluable contributions to spiritual and community development, Mr. H. Edwin Maria Arasu, Director, Special Projects, His Highness, Sharjah, UAE, and Mr. S. Arul Soosai, Founder of the Max Arul Foundation, were honored with the KING SOLOMON AWARD. This prestigious award acknowledges their dedication to the betterment of society and their role in advancing the Foundation’s mission.

Cultural Programs and Community Participation

The event was not just about speeches and awards; it was a celebration of life, culture, and community. Students from various educational institutions, along with children from Anbu Illam, entertained the audience with cultural performances. These programs added a festive spirit to the event, showcasing the talents and enthusiasm of the young participants.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Compassion and Service

The 114th birthday celebration of St. Mother Teresa was a resounding success, with over 2,000 people participating in the event. The evening concluded with a communal dinner, symbolizing unity and shared purpose. The Mother Teresa Foundation remains committed to continuing its mission of compassion, service, and support for the underprivileged, ensuring that the legacy of St. Mother Teresa lives on in the lives of those who need it most.