Caritas India is committed to work in Tamil Nadu with all the partners in line with the developmental issues and challenges. It is in this interest the development initiatives that would bring more human dignity to the underprivileged are devised in a phased manner through cluster approach. Caritas India had a consultative discussions with  the Diocesan Directors of Southern Tamil Nadu covering 7 DSSSs namely Kottar, Thuckalay, Marthandam, Kuzhithurai, Palayamkottai, Vallioor and Tuticorin .

“Health and Well Being” is identified as the prime area of concern in this region. Caritas India wants to address this  concern  through a clustered approach for a cumulative effect. Hence the identification of common geographical and thematic areas with similarity on issues, strategies and common definite outcome.

“Health and Well Being” cluster programme was officially launched on April 4, 2017 at Caritas Towers, Nagercoil by Most.Rev.Peter Remigius, Bishop of  Kottar. Most.Rev.Vincent Mar Paulose, Bishop of Marthandam gave the felicitation address during the launch.

“Caritas India is focused on long term impact creating sustainable programme which will bring change in the form of social transformation in the lives of poor people” said Fr.Frederick D’Souza, the Executive Director of Caritas India in his inaugural address.

Fr.Paul Moonjely emphasized that Volunteerism is the need of the hour and wished the programme to become a model health movement. Fr. Albert Thambidurai, Deputy Director of TASOSS also spoke on the need for voluntary community response to health issues.

The Deputy Director of Health Services Dr.Madhusudhan and Mr.Prince, MLA of Colachal constituency highlighted the importance of NGO-Government linkages and assured their support. 325 CBO representatives from 3 districts participating in the programme unanimously accepted and registered themselves as volunteers.