‘Haven of Hope’ – Shelter Home for Underprivileged Cancer Patients Inaugurated in Kochi

• The ‘Haven of Hope’ building, built under South Indian Bank’s CSR initiative for underprivileged cancer patients, is now operational.
• A new PPP model tailored to the needs of society is the need of the hour, said V. J. Kurian.

KOCHI, India, July 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As part of the CSR initiative of South Indian Bank, a dedicated shelter home for cancer patients, ‘Haven of Hope’, was inaugurated today in Kochi. The facility, located near the General Hospital, was formally inaugurated by Mr. V. J. Kurian, Chairman, South Indian Bank.

Speaking at the event, Mr. V. J. Kurian expressed immense satisfaction at the Bank’s involvement in a project that offers dignity and care to patients battling cancer. “This initiative reflects our commitment to creating lasting social impact by supporting those who need it the most.” He further added that it was during his tenure as MD that the Cochin International Airport (CIAL) was completed through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. CIAL remains the first airport in the country to operate under such a model. However, there is now an urgent need to develop a new PPP model in the country. “Through a ‘Project for Poor People (PPP)‘, we must aim to ensure the welfare of the underprivileged. For this, the public and institutions must work together with a shared vision,“ he emphasized.

The project was constructed on 13 cents of land owned by the Sisters of the Destitute (SD) congregation, with South Indian Bank contributing over ₹3 crore towards its construction under its CSR initiative. Spanning 10,000 sq. ft., the four-storied shelter home offers a safe and dignified space for cancer patients and their caregivers, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds who struggle to find affordable accommodation during prolonged treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation. The facility can accommodate up to 32 individuals at a time. The building is equipped with a kitchen area for preparing meals for patients, adjustable medical beds, and other necessary facilities.

The shelter is built in memory of Venerable Fr. Varghese Payyappilly, the founder of the SD congregation and a member of the Ernakulam–Angamaly Archdiocese. In 2018, he was declared ‘Venerable’ by the Catholic Church in recognition of his life of service to the poor and suffering. Fittingly, the shelter stands opposite the very hospital where he spent his final days, extending his compassion to fellow patients.

Mother Raisy Thalian, Provincial Superior of the SD congregation, presided over the ceremony. Mr. P. R. Seshadri, MD & CEO of South Indian Bank; Mr. M. George Korah, Non-Executive Independent Director; Mr. Paul Antony, and Mr. Benny P. Thomas, Non-Executive Directors of the Bank, Anto George T, COO of South Indian Bank were present as Guests of Honour. Sr. Anisha, Provincial Councillor, Rev. Dr. Fr. Kuriakose Mundadan, Former Director of Naipunnya Public School, Thrikkakkara, Rev. Dr. James Pereppadan, Vicar Lourde Matha Church, Perumanoor, Sr. Tharaka SD General Councillor, Sr. Anna Paul were also the speakers at the event. The facility is expected to commence operations shortly, providing compassionate care to patients in need.

For more information, please log on to www.southindianbank.com

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