Govt. pledges support for vulnerable, homeless people

People living with mental illness on the streets are among the most vulnerable sections of society, and yet they are often overlooked, G. Veerapandian, Principal Secretary of Health, Medical and Family Welfare Department said, while appreciating Manobandhu Foundation’s efforts in reaching out to such persons.

Taking part as the chief guest in the foundation’s 5th Insight Annual Gathering in Vijayawada on Saturday, Mr. Veerapandian said the State government would support the organisation in its efforts to rescue, treat, rehabilitate and reunite families of homeless persons with mental illness.

Mr. Veerapandian highlighted the Tele-MANAS mental-health counselling service run by the government, which can be accessed through the helpline 14416.

Later, Y.D. Rama Rao, the Chairman of Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS) Andhra Pradesh Branch, announced that IRCS would provide an ambulance for the forthcoming State-wide rescue campaign planned by the foundation.