What is the deafblind disability which Caritas Goa has been working on?

The Exposition of the Sacred Relics of Saint Francis Xavier is a profound reminder of the saint’s unwavering commitment to the suffering, the marginalized, and the less-fortunate. Known for his missionary zeal and compassion towards the underprivileged, Saint Xavier’s life urges us to extend our own acts of charity to the needy around us. One such opportunity lies in supporting the Caritas Centre for Deafblind, a project of hope for individuals suffering from deafblindness. 

Deaf-blindness is a unique disability that combines varying degrees of both, hearing as well as visual impairment. All individuals with deafblindness experience extreme challenges in communication, mobility and accessing information about the world around them. Persons with deafblindness face neglect and discrimination owing to their inability to communicate and relate to the world. They are thus denied even basic human rights like education and medical care, amongst other needs that are taken for granted by most of us.

Carrying Forward a Legacy of Compassion

Inspired by the Gospel's call to serve "the least of these," Caritas Goa, the social welfare arm of the church in Goa, started the Caritas Centre for Deafblind in 2012. The centre addresses the unique challenges faced by individuals with deafblindness. 

Since its inception, the Centre has grown into a haven for children and adults with deafblindness in Goa, providing a comprehensive array of services. With the support of Sense International India, the Centre has pioneered educational, vocational, and therapeutic interventions that not only empower the deafblind but also bring their families into the fold as active partners in rehabilitation.

The Mission in Action

The Caritas Centre for Deafblind, through its facilities in North and South Goa, offers:

● Early intervention and special education: Ensuring that children with deafblindness receive timely assistance to maximize their potential.

● Vocational training and livelihood opportunities: Preparing young adults for independent living.

● Therapeutic and clinical support: Providing vital services from ophthalmologists, psychiatrists, physiotherapists, and speech therapists.

● Counselling and family involvement: Strengthening the role of families as co-educators and advocates for their loved ones.

● Advocacy and awareness: Campaigning for the rights and inclusion of individuals with deafblindness in society.

A Call to Modern-Day Missionaries

As pilgrims flock to Goa for the exposition of Saint Xavier’s relics, they are invited not only to venerate the saint but also to embody his mission. Supporting the Caritas Centre for Deafblind is a concrete way to live out the Gospel message of love and service.

You can support the Caritas Centre for Deafblind in two ways:

1. Cash Donations: Help sustain and expand the Centre’s programs, ensuring that more individuals with deafblindness receive life-changing care.

2. In-Kind Donations: Items such as learning aids, sensory equipment, or therapy supplies are invaluable to the Centre’s work.

How to Support

Donations can be made directly to the Caritas Goa office in Panjim or the Centre for Deafblind at their branches in Saligao (North Goa) and Margao (South Goa).

By offering your support to the center, you join the ranks of modern-day missionaries—helping to uplift lives, restore dignity, and carry forward the legacy of Saint Francis Xavier. During this exposition, let us be the hands and feet of Christ to those in need.

“Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” – Matthew 25:40

By Steve Antao