The Canara Organization for Development and Peace (CODP) celebrated its Golden Jubilee year with a special housing aid distribution program on August 3, 2023, at the CODP Mother Theresa hall in Mangalore.
CODP, a charitable organization affiliated with the Diocese of Mangalore, organized the event to provide financial aid for housing to deserving beneficiaries. The program aimed to support both house repairs and the construction of new houses, benefiting a total of 100 individuals.
The event began with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by the Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of the Mangalore Diocese, and Rev. Fr Valerian D Souza, the Educare Advisor. Rev. Fr Vincent D Souza, the Director of CODP, extended a warm welcome to the distinguished guests on the stage and the beneficiaries in attendance. He shared comprehensive details about the housing project and presented a short video showcasing the project’s objectives and progress.
Rev. Fr Valerian D Souza addressed the audience on behalf of a key donor, Mr Michael D Souza, a non-resident businessman based in Dubai. Mr Michael D Souza’s generous contribution played a vital role in realizing the housing project. Rev. Fr Valerian expressed gratitude for Mr Michael’s collaboration with CODP and his commitment to providing aid for building new houses and facilitating repairs. He urged for the continuation of such initiatives to assist those in need and extended best wishes for the success of the program.
Subsequently, Bishop Peter Paul Saldanha and Rev. Fr Valerian D Souza distributed cheques to the 100 beneficiaries. Bishop Saldanha addressed the beneficiaries, highlighting that the project’s funding was garnered through donations collected from various churches during Lenten alms and contributions from other donors. He expressed his heartfelt appreciation to all those who supported the initiative, and he specifically acknowledged Rev. Fr Vincent D Souza and Mr Michael D Souza for their instrumental roles in the program’s success.
Several prominent individuals attended the event, including Vicar General Msgr. Maxim L. Noronha, Educare Program Advisors Mr Stephen Pinto, Mr Oswald Rodrigues, and Mr Henry D Souza, as well as members of the Housing Planning Committee, such as Mr Joe Coelho, Mrs Irene Rebello, and Mr Francis D Cunha. Additionally, representatives from the Mariyan Sodality and Director of Canara Communication Center Rev Fr Anil Ivan Fernandes were also present.
The event had a significant turnout, with 180 beneficiaries in attendance. A sponsored lunch was provided to all attendees, courtesy of Mr Michael D Souza.
The program concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Mrs Reena, a staff member of CODP, expressing gratitude to all involved in making the event and the housing project a reality.
