Man dedicates pension for helping elderly people
A retired government official, Chanchal has dedicated his entire pension for the wellbeing of the elderly people of his area
We always think at least twice before giving money from our pocket to someone else.
But there are a few people who literally dedicate their lives to helping the needy. Chanchal Chakma from Kamakuchara village in Khagrachhari is one such person.
A retired government official, Chanchal has dedicated his entire pension for the wellbeing of the elderly people of his area.
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Chanchal has started a private old age allowance programme with all his pension money. He is currently providing Tk500 per month to five people.
He started the programme on October 1, on the occasion of World Elders Day, and each day he is becoming more focused on his intentions.
"I always wanted to do something for the helpless people of my village. The lack of funds did not allow me to take the initiatives earlier," said Chanchal Chakma.
"Right now I am giving a life-long allowance of Tk500 per month to four women and one man who are over 65 years old."
They will get the allowance at the beginning of every month, he added.
One of the beneficiaries of Chanchal's noble initiative is Bimaladevi Chakma, aged 71, who has found it very helpful.
"At the beginning of the month, I got an elderly allowance of Tk500 from Chanchal, and with that money I bought medicines," said Bimaladevi.
Nagri Chakma, 67, is another beneficiary of the programme.
She said she tried to get help from the union parishad, but did not get any despite repeated attempts.
"The money from this private allowance will help a lot in solving my problems," she added.
Shivu Ranjan Chakma, a member of the North Kamakchura ward, said the ward-based allowance is not sufficient. Chanchal's initiative will help those who are not included in the government list.
Monirul Islam, the deputy director of Khagrachari Women's Affairs said the initiative will be much more effective if it can be organised under a foundation or a trust.
