KUCHING: Hope Place calls upon the good samaritans of Sarawak to contribute to helping an octogenarian at Batu Kawa here to sustain living costs.
It said at 82 years old, Philomena Jitern Mitah is the cornerstone of her family, caring for her autistic adult son, Moses, while also supporting her blind husband and two other dependents in Batu Kawa. Despite her age and deteriorating health, Philomena’s unwavering dedication to her family underscores her resilience.
“Philomena’s husband, Ambrose, 72, has been blind since his youth and continues to work as a masseur, relying on a prosthetic leg. His modest income supplements the family’s limited finances.
“However, the family’s struggles are compounded by Moses’ condition. At 33, Moses, who is non-verbal and experiences frequent epileptic seizures, requires constant supervision,” Hope Place said in a press release on Thursday.
“I’m old, with poor eyesight and hearing, but I’m still taking care of Moses. Sometimes I feel scare about what will happen to him when I’m gone,” said Philomena.
Adding to the family’s challenges is Philomena’s daughter, Diana, 43, who works part-time while undergoing dialysis. As the primary breadwinner, Diana’s income is stretched thin as she also cares for her 16-year-old daughter.
In response to their plight, Hope Place Kuching provides continuous food aid to the family. The non-governmental organisation (NGO)’s assistance complements the RM350 monthly social welfare aid Moses receives, ensuring the family has basic necessities.
Hope Place encourages the community to extend their support to families like Philomena’s. “Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a difference in the lives of those who rely on us,” it said.
Those wishing to help can contact Hope Place at 082-505987 or 013-5672775. Donations are accepted via bank transfer (MBB: 511289001160) or through the Sarawak Pay QR code available on the NGO’s Facebook page. Receipts are issued for all contributions.
