On 3rd July 2025, ECHO Center for Juvenile Justice, Bengaluru inaugurated its New Unit in the serene village of Siolim, Goa — ECHO Adhar — a home-based care initiative for senior citizens. The blessing of the center was solemnized by Rev. Fr. Clifford Castelino, former Parish Priest of St. Francis Xavier Church, Corgao and Former Member of the Juvenile Justice Board, Goa. He was accompanied by Fr. Dhaman, Counsellor; Fr. Bhinu Kumar N. M., Assistant Director, ECHO Bengaluru; Fr. Joseph Palattil, Program Coordinator, ECHO Bengaluru and Fr. Antony Sebastion, Founder Director, ECHO Bengaluru. The event began with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and the formal opening of the centre by Rev. Fr. Clifford Castelino, which was followed by a special blessing and prayer service held within the premises. Donors, religious sisters, local government officials, neighbours and friends of ECHO joined the event both in-person and virtually, creating a supportive gathering in solidarity with the cause of elder care.
Anchored by Ms. Sneha Sam. K, Assistant Program Coordinator, the program featured a short documentary on ECHO’s journey and a series of heartfelt addresses. The inaugural ceremony was graced by Rev. Fr. Clifford Castelino, in the esteemed presence of:
§ Mr. Rohith, Representative, Department of Women and Child Development, Government of Goa
§ Mrs. Julie Sequeira, Representative, Gama Family
§ Mrs. Prameela, Well Wisher, ECHO
§ Fr. Nelson, Director, St. Pallotti Formation House
§ Fr. Dhaman, Counsellor
Chief Guest, Fr. Clifford Castelino emphasized the growing need for elder care, while Mr. Rohith praised ECHO’s efforts in rehabilitating children in conflict with law. Speeches by Ms. Julie Siqueira, Fr. Nelson and Fr. Dhaman further appreciated the organization’s outreach in Goa. The event culminated with an inspiring message from ECHO’s Founder Director, Adv. Dr. Fr. Antony Sebastion, who reiterated the organization’s vision of transforming love into care and care into legacy. With ECHO Adhar, the organization steps into a new realm of service—to not just for children coming from difficult circumstances but the elderly in need.
