More Than Just A Shelter. Aangan Brings Hope, Care, and Family to the Elderly

“I was sick, and my family left me when I needed them most. They took my things and walked away. It broke me to know my own blood could leave me like that. At Aangan the staff fed me, gave me medicine, and sat with me when I was scared. They did not just treat my body. They listened to me and held my hand. I fought hard, and I beat the illness. I learned there is hope even in the darkest times. People here gave me a reason to live.” - Anangpal Goel, resident of Aangan

An idea that turned into a forever home

In 2015, Dr Manisha Singh was running a children’s daycare when one parent asked if there was a place that could care for the elderly as well. Both the parent and their spouse were working and had no one to look after their ageing parents. This question sparked an idea, and in a couple of years, it grew into what is now Aangan Elderly Home.

“The idea was to start a daycare, but when I visited an old age home where I regularly donated, I knew I wanted things to be different. Though the facilities were good, what was missing was happiness. That’s when I decided I wanted to create a safe and happy place for the elderly a space where they can engage, play, sing, and lead a peaceful life.” - Dr. Manisha Singh

This is my family now, this is my home

Over the years, Aangan has become more than just a care facility. It is a place where laughter echoes through the halls, where stories are shared, and where every resident is embraced as family.                                     

“I have a very big family, but no one comes to visit. My grandson left me here and said, ‘There is no one for you now, and we will never come back. We will not come back even if you die.’ and he left. I don’t want anyone to contact them ever. I love it here; I receive love, respect, and care. This is my family now, this is my home.”- Chhaya Rani, resident of Aangan

Caring for 50+ Elderly Comes With Its Own Challenges

With over 50 elderly residents, Dr. Manisha Singh is responsible for medicines, ongoing treatments, groceries, staff salaries, rent, and maintenance. Regular donations and income from her daycare are often not enough to cover all expenses.

“At times, I struggle to even pay rent for the shelter or salaries for the helpers who care for our residents. But giving up is not an option. Many of our members are above 80 and need constant care and medical support. Sometimes, just the cost of an emergency hospitalisation feels impossible, yet I cannot imagine turning my back on them.” - Dr. Manisha Singh

She recalls one such moment, “I still remember one of our residents, whom we lovingly call ‘Frooti Aunty.’ She had no one left—her only son had passed away—and one day she suffered a heart attack. I rushed her to a private hospital, but had no money to pay the fees. Thankfully, some well-wishers stepped in to help. Today, Frooti Aunty is alive and still with us. Moments like these remind me why I must keep going, no matter how hard it gets.”- Dr. Manisha Singh

Aangan needs your help

Aangan Elderly Home doesn’t just shelter abandoned elderly it also helps families who want to care for their ageing parents but cannot afford it

“No one should have to choose between money and the dignity of their elders. Service shouldn’t stop, and I am trying my best to do my part, but I would need your help to keep going.” -Manisha

At Aangan Elderly Home, every resident carries a story of loss, but also of resilience and newfound hope. What began as Manisha Sharma’s determination to give seniors dignity in their final years has now become a lifeline for dozens of elders who would otherwise be left alone, hungry, and forgotten.

Yet, the struggle to keep this mission alive is real. Rising costs of groceries, medicines, rent, and salaries threaten the care these elders depend on.

With your help, Aangan can continue to be the family they no longer have. Even a small contribution can mean a warm meal, essential medicines, or a safe roof over their heads.