From Mu’awiya Bala Idris, Katsina
A philanthropist, Hasiya Abdulrahman, has established three elderly care homes in Katsina State to provide accommodation, medical care and other essential needs for vulnerable older people.
Speaking with journalists at the official opening of one of the care homes in Dandagoro town, Katsina, Hasiya said the facilities would be managed and funded by her foundation.
She said the homes were established out of concern for elderly people who need comfort, care and support, adding that residents would have access to medical attention from healthcare professionals.
According to her, the initiative is aimed at ensuring that vulnerable elderly people are not left to struggle alone when they can no longer care for themselves.
Hasiya said her inspiration for the project came partly from elderly care facilities she encountered during a visit to the United Kingdom.
“I was impressed by the structured support available for older people in such facilities and decided to adopt the idea to meet the needs of vulnerable elders in Katsina,” she said.
She explained that the foundation established the care homes without financial assistance from the government or individuals.
Hasiya added that the foundation also runs migrant homes and an orphanage as part of its humanitarian activities, noting that it had so far reached 21 families.
She further said the foundation had supported vulnerable children, particularly those begging or trading on the streets, by enrolling them in schools.
She called on non-governmental organisations, philanthropists and governments at all levels to do more to support vulnerable people in society.