The Family of Thomas and Reethamma

Thomas supported both his wife and now grown children with his earnings as a fisherman. Old age forced Thomas to retire but his son, Binu, took over supporting the parents.

A tragic accident took their son’s life and now the couple is in desperate need of a sponsor. (You can read more of their story below)

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Category:

Description

Family Members:
Thomas, 76 years
Reethamma, 63 years

Alleppey Region

Thomas and Reethamma are an elderly couple by Indian standards. Thomas is 76 years old, unable to work after surviving many grueling years in the fishing industry. His wife Reethamma, is 63, and also suffers from medical issues. The couple has no education or job training, no land, and no savings. They spent their entire working life trying to scrape together a living for their small family.

The couple was blessed with two children early in their marriage. Their daughter is grown and married and lives far away. Their son, Binu, remained with his parents to support them. When Thomas became too old and ill to continue his fishing, Binu took over the job. As his parents health declined, he worked harder and harder to support them. It was a difficult task, but the family of three was happy.

In December 2023, tragedy struck. Binu left to fish with his coworkers, working late into the night. The water became rougher and tossed the boat about, and Binu was thrown into the sea. His coworkers searched for him and called for help. The local authorities launched a search that lasted for several days. But Binu was lost to the sea and his body was never recovered.

This was a tragedy for many reasons. First, everyone mourns the death of this hard-working young man and beloved son. At the same time, Binu’s death left Thomas and Reethamma with no source of income and no assistance in their declining health. Even worse, the government programs that could provide the couple with survivor benefits are not available because Binu’s body has never been found. So, Thomas and Reethamma find themselves in deep mourning over their son’s death, while they also consider their bleak future.

This couple is in dire need of assistance to ensure they can keep a roof over their head and food on their table. They are a simple, hard-working couple that has only the most basic needs, but they are desperate for assistance.