Michael D’Souza & Family Launches Educare Endowment Fund at CODP

MANGALORE, SEPT 16, 2024: The inauguration of the Michael D’Souza and Family Educare Endowment (Revolving) Fund took place on 16th September 2024 at the Mother Theresa Hall in CODP (Canara Organization for Development and Peace). The event was graced by the presence of Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, the Bishop of the Mangalore, alongside Rev. Fr Valerian D’Souza, Educare Committee Advisor, Mrs Flavia D’Souza, spouse of Mr Michael D’Souza, and their daughter, Mrs Nisha D’Souza.

The program began with a solemn prayer song led by the CODP staff. Rev. Fr Vincent D’Souza, Director of CODP, warmly welcomed the gathering and introduced the esteemed guests on the dais.

In a symbolic gesture, the D’Souza family handed over the endowment fund to the Bishop, Fr Vincent D’Souza, and Rev. Fr Lawrence Cutinha, Coordinator of Educare. Following this, Bishop Peter Paul Saldanha distributed interest-free loans to several deserving but economically challenged students from the Mangalore Diocese.

A felicitation ceremony followed, where Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha honored key contributors with shawls and garden plants. Among those felicitated were Mrs. Flavia D’Souza, Mrs Nisha D’Souza, Rev. Fr Valerian D’Souza, Mr Stephen Pinto, Mr Oswald Rodrigues, Mr Henry D’Souza, and Prof. Lionel Aranha for their role in advancing the socio-economic work of CODP.

In her heartfelt speech, Mrs Nisha D’Souza expressed gratitude towards her parents, describing them as lifelong role models who instilled the values of social service and charity in their children.

The Bishop, in his address, emphasized Jesus Christ’s mission to serve the poor and lauded the D’Souza family for their philanthropic contributions. He encouraged the beneficiaries to be responsible and systematic in repaying the loans to ensure the revolving fund benefits more students in the future.

The event was compered by Mr Richard Alvares, a member of the Educare Committee, while Mrs Reena D’Cunha, Educare Coordinator, delivered the vote of thanks. A total of 84 students received Rs. 74,42,000 in financial assistance, with refreshments served to over 300 attendees.

The inauguration of the Educare Endowment Fund marks a significant milestone in supporting the educational dreams of underprivileged students, ensuring a brighter future for the next generation.