Abdulmuhsen Al-Sabti Okaz/Saudi Gazette JEDDAH — Elderly women living in charitable homes expressed joy after philanthropists began donating food to them with the start of Ramadan. Some of these charitable elderly homes are deteriorating on the inside and outside. The residents spoke of the memories, patience, and burdens they experienced in their lives. They also joyfully spoke about Ramadan. Um Yousef, 83, said she has been in her charitable elderly home for the past 25 years and lived with many residents who have come and gone. She said they open the home's door early in the morning until dawn the following day waiting for philanthropists. She said philanthropists come from various places and some businessmen also frequent the homes during Ramadan to distribute food, money, clothes and simple furniture. Fatimah, another resident, said she rejoices when Ramadan approaches, as the month brings with it good things. However, she said she can never forget her grief deep inside, as she lives far from her children, who she said have neglected her. She said residents in these homes have become like a family helping each other and sharing their workload. She complained about water scarcity, as the groundwater tank is small and water runs out quickly. They also find it difficult to buy water from filling centers. In another rundown charitable elderly home, Hind, a 77-year-old resident, said they rejoice when Ramadan approaches, as they receive money and foodstuff handouts. She said they are thankful the owners of these homes have provided them with a roof over their head, but she is asking the authorities to provide them with more food and medicine. She said the efforts of charitable organizations, businessmen and philanthropists should be organized to provide better conditions for them. She added that concerned bodies should supervise food, health and maintenance services provided to them. In addition, she called for private security guards, especially as some of these homes are inhabited by families who have young girls. Jeddah Governor Prince Mishal Bin Majed had previously issued instructions to prepare a unified list of charitable elderly homes. The list should be maintained by the Makkah branch of the Ministry of Social Affairs, he said. He said the structure of these homes should also be inspected, especially as some of them are almost 100 years old.
