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"Subramani was found beside a garbage can. He was suffering from dementia and didn't even realise that he didn’t even have a cloth on his waist. The only thing he knew was hunger and he was eating garbage to stay alive. He might have died near that garbage can if it weren’t for our team."- SM Venkatesh
This is one of many instances of the work done by Chennai’s Agal Foundation that helps people in need. Agal means "All genders and life-lines," and it is run by Mr. SM Venkatesh. They help people who have been forgotten by others.
Everybody deserves someone to care for them
Mr. Venkatesh, often revered as a modern-day Mother Teresa, has dedicated over 20 years of his life to relentless compassion and selfless service. Over the years, he has donated blood more than 25 times, and with his wife's consent, he has registered all four family members to donate their eyes. In 2004, he legally registered with his family's consent to donate his body after his death. He also donated his late mother's eyes, helping two others regain their sight. Mr. Venkatesh has rescued more than 2,000 individuals from the streets.
“These individuals include abandoned children, destitute people of all ages, and those suffering from mental illnesses such as schizophrenia, Alzheimer's, and Parkinson's disease. Nobody cares about them. They are treated like dirt.”- SM Venkatesh
From a life of despair to one of dignity and hope
Another touching story that exemplifies the spirit of the Agal Foundation is that of Muniyamma, a 70-year-old woman found wandering aimlessly with a gaze full of sorrow and pain. Her life had been a series of unfortunate events, leaving her destitute and vulnerable. When Mr. Venkatesh found her, she was in a dire state, both physically and emotionally. With utmost care, he provided her with clean clothes, medical attention, and a safe place to stay.“Every day, we receive about five calls for help. Despite limited resources, we strive to attend to at least three of these calls, rescuing individuals and providing them with shelter, food, and medical care.” - SM Venkatesh
The foundation constantly struggles with a lack of financial support and resources
The Agal Foundation also collaborates with the police department, participating as home guards, friends of the police, and as an essential helpline rescue supporter. His unwavering commitment to humanity has earned him numerous awards and recognition from various organisations across India.Mr. Venkatesh's dedication extends beyond just providing immediate relief. He dreams of establishing a free old-age home in memory of his mother, where the elderly can live with dignity and care. Despite their tireless efforts, they are in dire need of cleaning kits, first-aid materials, clothes, stretchers, wheelchairs, transport, and manpower to continue their life-saving work.
"Our ambition is to have our own building and land to accommodate and care for even more people in need. Currently, we rely on borrowed autos and cabs for transportation, which makes our mission even more challenging. I want to do as much as I can for the betterment of humanity."- SM VenkateshClick here to contribute.
Registration Number - AAOCM6666MF20229
EIN 20-5139364
