Enugu Old People’s Home Appeals For Support, Faces Water Crisis

By Chukwumerije Aja, Enugu 

 

 

 

 

The Management of the Old People’s Home in Enugu State has made an urgent appeal for assistance from the Enugu State Government and well-meaning Nigerians to provide essential amenities for the well-being of its elderly residents. 

 

Sister Sylvia Blanshard, the Assistant Supervisor of the home, made the call during a visit by Association of Heads of Federal Establishment (AHFE), Enugu state chapter at the weekend.

 

The home, managed by the Little Sisters of the Poor; of the Catholic Church, is located at St. Paul’s Catholic Church, Awkunanaw.

 

Sister Blanshard specifically urged Governor Peter Mbah to extend water supply lines to the home, which is currently experiencing severe water shortages.

 

She acknowledged the government’s ongoing efforts to provide clean and safe water for the people of Enugu but stressed that the home still faces significant challenges in this area.

 

“We spend more than N200,000 weekly just to buy water, paying N40,000 for five tankers every week, which amounts to N800,000 per month,” she revealed.

 

The home, which houses 50 elderly residents, will mark its 50th anniversary next year. Sister Blanshard explained that, in addition to water issues, the aging building requires refurbishment and painting.

 

The home also faces financial strains in providing food and other necessities for the residents.

 

“We cook for over 80 people and feed them three times a day. Additionally, we provide monthly food packages to 30 families who are not residents of the home but rely on our support,” she added.

 

She also expressed gratitude to the employees of the home, many of whom are not Nigerian, for their dedicated service.

 

Blanshard thanked AHFE for the visit and for the donations emphasizing that the home relies heavily on charity since many of its residents lack financial support from their families.

 

The Sister in charge of the home, Sister Rosily Kunjuvarkey, echoed these sentiments, explaining that they are unable to admit new residents due to space constraints and other challenges.

 

She highlighted that the congregation of the Little Sisters of the Poor, founded by Sister Jeanne Jugan, operates in 21 countries, assisting the elderly poor.

 

Earlier, the Chairman, Association of Heads of Federal Establishment, AHFE, Barr. Emeka Nwokoro explained that the visit by AHFE was part of the association’s efforts in giving back to the society.

 

Barr. Nwokoro listed the items brought by AHFE to include bags of rice, milk, pampers, detergent, and fresh tomatoes, to support the home.

 

“We are happy to give the little we can, and also for the warm reception given to us“. Nwokoro said.

 

The AHFE Chairman however urged Nigerians to direct their charitable efforts toward those in need.

 

 

 

 

 

Oyenike Oyeniyi