MAR THOMA WELFARE SOCIETY
A Mission Rooted in Compassion
“Lighted to Lighten” – Serving with Purpose and Love
The Mar Thoma Welfare Society (MTWS) is the social outreach arm of the Mar Thoma Syrian Church, Chembur, established with a commitment to exemplify the church motto: “Lighted to Lighten.” MTWS has been actively involved in reaching out to the marginalized and underprivileged sections of society since the early 1980s. It is a charitable trust registered under the Bombay Public Trust Act, 1950.
Our journey began with small but meaningful steps—initiating medical dispensary, tailoring classes and Balwadi programs in the slum areas of Shivaji Nagar, Mumbai. These early efforts laid the foundation for a much broader mission of compassion and service, extending the church’s love into the heart of our community. With the changing times, the medical dispensary work was discontinued as more and more citizens started accessing the public health infrastructure.
At present, the following major projects are operational.
Umeed – A Shelter of Hope for Pediatric Cancer Patients
One of our most impactful initiatives is Project Umeed, launched in collaboration with the Tata Memorial Centre (TMC), Mumbai—India’s leading cancer treatment hospital.
Each year, many children afflicted with cancer from remote parts of India come to TMC for diagnosis and treatment. Many of these families are financially disadvantaged and struggle to afford even basic necessities in Mumbai during the treatment process that sometimes extends to several weeks and some are left to fend for themselves on the footpaths of the city.
Our Response: Shelter, Food & Travel Assistance
Through Umeed, MTWS provides:
- Shelter at Umeed, our care center in Mumbai in a peaceful and safe environment
- Nutritious meals for both children and their caregivers
- Reimbursement of local travel expenses to and from the hospital
- Emotional and community support during a challenging journey
How Are These Services Funded?
Project Umeed is entirely sustained through the generosity of our members and well-wishers. Our primary fundraising campaign, “Ruchi Vediyu, Ruchi Pakaru,” is conducted annually during the Great Lent season, inviting members to share for those in need. The prayers, donations, and volunteering spirit of our members form the backbone of this mission.
Balwadi – Building Foundations for a Better Tomorrow
In addition to Project Umeed, MTWS also runs a Balwadi for children living in economically weaker areas of Shivaji Nagar. This initiative aims to:
- Provide pre-school education and support
- Support language, cognitive, and social development
- Create a safe and engaging learning space for children aged 3–5
Currently, 20 children are enrolled in our Balwadi program. For many of them, this is their first step toward formal education—a step made possible through the love and care of our community.
Our Vision - Faith in Action
We believe that faith must translate into action. MTWS is our humble attempt to be the hands and feet of Christ in this city—serving, healing, and walking alongside those who suffer. We echo the words of Mother Teresa, who said, “No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” Every meal we serve, every child we teach, and every family we comfort is a testament to God’s love working through us. Together, we are building a community where hope, dignity, and compassion prevail.