In a society where women frequently encounter difficulties and barriers, it is crucial to establish a secure and supportive environment where they can flourish, heal and prosper.
It can happen in many ways, but perhaps best through a residential facility that serves as a symbol of optimism, delivering a nurturing environment to meet their requirements and enabling them to pursue satisfying paths.
A facility such as this surely appears to be an ideal environment for women, who need to overcome the odds. And, one such space opened its doors in Goa recently.
Casa Agape, situated in Vasco, is a residential care facility designed specifically for women, encountering challenges and distress in societal and personal situations.
Hailing from Goa, Chandni recognised the pressing need for such a sanctuary, and utilised her savings to establish Casa Agape.
Casa Agape, situated in Vasco, is a residential care facility designed specifically for women, encountering challenges and distress in societal and personal situations.
Speaking about what drove her to start this care home, Chandni says, “When a desire to help the helpless turns to passion, you work towards it till you achieve your goal."
"And, for me, the ultimate goal was to make a difference in the lives of people by providing them with good quality care and giving them a home away from home. Fortunately for me, l had access to the best resources and hands-on guidance, which helped me fulfil my dream,” she explains.
She continues, “It's not about opening a home and looking after them. But, it’s about building personal relationships, creating fond memories, spending quality time with them, giving them a listening ear. It's something I always did as far as I can remember.”
This is her first venture in Goa and she has another such home in the pipeline for women in North Goa, which will begin operations soon.
Casa Agape’s mission is to create a haven, where women can find refuge, support and resources to overcome adversity.
“We are committed to fostering a community of strength, resilience and growth, where every woman feels valued, heard and empowered to transform her life. However, this is a care home and not an old age or nursing home,” Chandni shares.
It is a community support system where women can experience belonging, engage in social gatherings, join social circles and foster avenues for personal growth.
At Casa Agape, women can expect secure and safe accommodation in an environment free from harm and judgment. It is a community support system where women can experience belonging, engage in social gatherings, join social circles and foster avenues for personal growth.
The care home offers beds and essential amenities, health and wellness programs, and focuses on holistic well-being, including fitness, nutrition and access to healthcare services.
These initiatives aim to encourage women to prioritise their physical and mental health.
Admission to Casa Agape requires meeting specific criteria, as it caters exclusively to distressed women, rather than those dealing with mental illness, given the absence of medical personnel onsite.
Prospective residents need to complete a form and submit the necessary documentation for consideration.
In Christianity, ‘Agape’ is defined as the 'highest form of love and charity'. And sometimes, the best kind of support one can provide is just listening and being there. And for that, there are people like Chandni whose hearts are made of gold.
In a world where women face their fair share of problems, the focus is on helping women who deserve the world, one step at a time.