A UK-based Nepali family has established an old age home at Damak Municipality in Jhapa.

Fifty-five-year-old Manamaya Sunuwar of Damak-9 who was living with her family in the UK set up the Elderly Citizen Service Centre in order to provide shelter to helpless senior citizens. Construction of the centre, built in memory of Manamaya’s late parents Ratna Bahadur and Ratnamaya, was initiated two years ago.

The building can accommodate 20 elderly citizens, including 10 women. “The centre will provide shelter to helpless elderly citizens,” Sunuwar, who is also

the chairperson of the center. She said around Rs 3 million was spent in building the shelter.

The centre’s joint secretary, Parika Ale, said they established the shelter after they saw the dignified lifestyle of elderly citizens in the UK. The shelter which is currently providing services to two senior citizens came into operation a few days ago.

“The centre provides services to those who are deserted by their children,” Sunuwar said.

Damak Municipality’s Executive Officer Yubaraj Dahal said the number of people aged above 70 is around 4,500 in the city. “Old age home is necessary due to the busy lifestyle of people,” he said.