In 1985 a charity was set up by Mrs Joyce Ross, a member of Dorridge Methodist church, with the support of Miss Mollie Tedder (both now deceased). Joyce had retired to Dorridge after working in the School for the Deaf in Dornakal. She was concerned about the plight of some of the widows who had little or no income for their support and so the small-scale charity named ‘Widows of Dornakal’, now called ‘Dornakal Fund for the Needy’ was set up.
In Dornakal, Miss G. Kantha was given responsibility for the fund and distributing it out to the widows, she is now helped by her nephew as her health is poor. The money was then, and is still today, for the support of the widows in their daily lives and for the Christmas celebration and gifts. Recent research shows that around half all elderly people in India are financially dependent on others, usually their families, who are often themselves struggling to meet their basic needs. In many areas there is little, or no, state provision of pensions or services. Elderly women are particularly vulnerable with two thirds being financially dependent on others.
The fund has been supported by churches in the Dorridge area and by
individuals through the years and run by a small group based in Solihull. When
Carol Linfield from St Philip’s Church Dorridge had the opportunity to spend six
months in India she visited Dornakal and was able to spend time with Miss
Kantha and with church officers. Until his death in 2022 Norman Powell was treasurer to the fund and arranged the transfer of funds to those responsible for its distribution in Dornakal. His widow, Janet, and daughter, Gemma, have taken on his role and are now actively involved as trustees. Currently the Church of South India Diocese of Dornakal Finance Office also provides support in the administration and distribution of the funds in Dornakal.
Funds are sent in June and at the end of November which includes an extra payment of £450 for the Christmas party held in the Cathedral compound. There are now 36 beneficiaries who each receive 400 rupees (equivalent to approx £4) each month. Extra money is sent to cover medical fees, funeral costs and a little for their administration/postage.
A newsletter is published each year
Dornakal Fund for the Needy 