Impact Stories
Lakshmi Paati
Once a tailoring teacher in a small government school, Lakshmi Paati spent her entire life helping others look their best. After her husband died, and with no children, she lived in a tiny room, stitching for survival. Eventually, poor eyesight and arthritis took away her only source of income. She arrived at Sontha Marakattalai unsure of her future, but with a spark of pride. Today, she teaches other elderly women to do simple stitching as a form of therapy and creative engagement. She makes handkerchiefs, pot holders, and cloth bags – all with care and love. Her creations are now used in the home and given as gifts to donors and volunteers.
Muthammal Paati
Muthammal was once the pillar of her family – a loving mother and grandmother. But after her husband’s passing and her children settling abroad, she was left alone. Gradually, even phone calls stopped. She was brought to Sontha Marakattalai by a kind neighbor who noticed she hadn’t stepped out in days. When she arrived, she was quiet, withdrawn, and hadn’t eaten properly in weeks. Over time, with nutritious meals, regular health checkups, and gentle emotional support, she began smiling again. She now spends her mornings drawing kolams, singing old folk songs, and helping other paatis tie their hair.