In the bustling city of Guwahati, an 80-year-old retired Indian Air Force captain, A.C. Barua, is shining as a beacon of hope for elderly homeless women. His heartwarming story of compassion and dedication is creating ripples of change in the lives of those who have nowhere else to turn.
Seneh Shelter Home
Established in 2011 under the Bhavada Devi Memorial Philanthropic Trust, Barua’s shelter home, lovingly named “Seneh,” has been a sanctuary for over 100 elderly women from Assam, Jharkhand, Bihar, and Telangana. These women, often abandoned and suffering from various challenges, find a caring home at Seneh.
Barua’s journey to becoming a savior for elderly women is nothing short of remarkable. After serving in the Indian Air Force for three decades, he took voluntary retirement in 1999. Following a brief stint in the business world, he redirected his life’s purpose toward social service, driven by a deep desire to make a difference.
Seneh offers refuge to women above 50 years old, left without support, abandoned by families, struggling with mental health issues, and devoid of means for survival. The shelter, which accommodates up to 30 women, provides them with essential necessities such as shelter, food, healthcare, and clothing.
Empowering Women Through Activities
At Seneh, residents are encouraged to engage in various activities to boost self-reliance and self-esteem. From cooking and gardening to knitting and singing, the women actively participate in daily life. Their handicrafts are sold in the local market, allowing them to contribute and feel a sense of accomplishment.
A significant portion of Seneh’s residents struggle with mental and physical health issues. The shelter has collaborated with local medical facilities to ensure access to necessary treatments, including psychiatric care, cancer treatment, and heart care. With the support of dedicated staff, the women receive the care they deserve.
Barua and his team of seven employees are dedicated to providing 24/7 care to the shelter’s residents. Maintaining the shelter comes at a monthly cost of Rs 2 lakh, primarily funded by Barua himself, his son’s assistance, crowdsourcing, and generous donations from the community.
A Bright Future of Compassion
A.C. Barua’s story exemplifies the power of compassion and the impact one person can make. As he continues to uplift the lives of elderly women at Seneh, he hopes that his legacy of care and support will endure long after he’s gone.
In a world often preoccupied with the present, A.C. Barua’s unwavering commitment to serving those in need stands as an inspiring reminder of the difference one individual can make in the lives of many.