Tag: Community Service

Human Interest

Anjuna Police Officers Recover Lost Samsung S24 Ultra of South African Tourist at Vagator Beach

allycaralgoa

In yet another commendable display of dedication and professionalism, PC Abhishek Kasar and PC Shamba of the Anjuna Police Station successfully recovered a missing mobile phone belonging to a foreign national from South Africa.

The tourist had reported his Samsung S24 Ultra missing while visiting Vagator Beach. Responding promptly, the two officers initiated focused efforts to trace the device. Their swift coordination, persistent follow-up, and effective teamwork led to the successful recovery of the phone.

The missing device was later handed over to the rightful owner at the Anjuna Police Station. Grateful for the timely assistance, the tourist expressed deep appreciation for the sincerity, commitment, and supportive approach of the officers, praising Goa Police for their efficient handling of the situation.

This incident once again highlights the ongoing efforts of the Anjuna Police Station in ensuring the safety and security of visitors and locals. Their proactive approach reinforces the trust that tourists continue to place in Goa as a safe and welcoming destination.

Health

Organ Donation Awareness at Blood Donation Camp in Dona Paula, Goa

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Health Desk

On November 21, 2025, Mr. Gabriel Pereira, Organ Donation Ambassador with the MOHAN Foundation, set up an organ donation information desk at the blood donation camp held at Bay 15 Resort, Dona Paula, Goa. The camp was organized by the Models Group in association with the Indian Red Cross Society, Goa, and the Goa Medical College Blood Bank, Bambolim, in fond memory of the late Mr. Peter Vaz, founder of the Models Group, to commemorate his birth anniversary.

The Models Group, which began as a modest real estate firm, has grown into one of Goa’s most respected names in development, tourism, and community initiatives. From landmark residential projects to iconic hospitality ventures and a celebrated football club, the group’s legacy is built on innovation, integrity, and impact. Under the guidance of Mrs. Natalina Vaz, along with Danira Vaz and Diogo Nathan Vaz, the group continues to honor the vision of Mr. Peter Vaz while driving real estate development in Goa to new heights.

At the camp, 77 attendees from various establishments of the Models Group donated blood. Mr. Gabriel Pereira distributed around 60 sets of frequently asked questions on organ donation and engaged with the donors, emphasizing the importance of organ donation. He expressed his appreciation to the blood donors for their generosity, noting that their contributions could save three to four lives. He highlighted that by pledging to donate organs, one person could save up to eight lives and enhance the lives of up to 50 people through tissue donation. Inspired by the awareness session, 10 individuals signed organ donation pledge cards.

Mr. Gabriel extended his gratitude to Mr. Rio, Program Officer at the Indian Red Cross Society, Goa, for inviting the MOHAN Foundation to participate in the camp and promote organ donation awareness.

Health

Organ Donation Awareness at Blood Donation Camp in Aldona, Goa

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Health Desk

On November 22, 2025, a blood donation camp organized by St. Thomas Girls’ High School in Aldona, in collaboration with Loving Hearts Goa and the North Goa District Hospital (Asilo) Blood Bank, hosted an organ donation awareness desk led by Mr. Gabriel Pereira, Organ Donation Ambassador with the MOHAN Foundation. Supported by Dr. Carlos Medical Stores, Aldona, the camp ran from 10 AM to 1 PM and attracted participation from 19 parents and members of the public who generously donated blood.

Mr. Gabriel Pereira interacted with the donors, emphasizing the importance of both blood and organ donation. He explained that a single blood donation can save three to four lives, while one organ donor can save up to eight lives and positively impact 50 more through tissue donation. During the camp, four donors took pledge cards to commit themselves as organ donors.

In addition to personal engagement, Mr. Pereira distributed frequently asked questions about organ donation and shared bike and helmet stickers featuring the organ donation and transplant helpline number to further spread awareness in the community.

The President of Loving Hearts Goa, Mr. Mark D’ Souza, expressed gratitude to Sr. Rosarina Crasto, the Headmistress of St. Thomas Girls’ High School, for allowing the camp to be held at the school premises for the second time, highlighting the collaborative effort to promote health awareness and community service in Aldona.

Health

Blood Donation Camp Organized at Our Lady of Pilar Church, Goa

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Health Desk

On November 18, 2025, Our Lady of Pilar Church, affiliated with the Society of Pilar in Goa, organized a blood donation camp in collaboration with Loving Hearts Goa and the Goa Medical College Blood Bank. The camp, which ran from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon, coincided with the eighth day of the novena dedicated to the sick and was held at the Pilar Seminary Hall. Parishioners who attended Mass earlier in the day actively participated in this life-saving initiative, alongside seminarians and priests who generously donated blood.

In addition to the blood donation drive, the camp featured an Organ Donation Information Desk managed by Mr. Gabriel Pereira, an Organ Donation Ambassador from the MOHAN Foundation. He distributed approximately 30 frequently asked questions on organ donation and engaged attendees in meaningful discussions about the importance of pledging support for organ donation, inspiring many to consider contributing to this noble cause.

Mr. Ranjit Rodrigues, a founding member of Loving Hearts Goa, and President Mr. Mark D’Souza expressed their heartfelt gratitude to Rev. Fr. Anthony Joseph Fernandes, Central Delegate Superior at the Pilar Pilgrim Centre, for supporting the camp for the second consecutive year. They also thanked all donors for their valuable contributions, emphasizing that each donation has the potential to make a significant difference in someone’s life. The blood donation camp at Our Lady of Pilar Church was a remarkable demonstration of community spirit, compassion, and the shared commitment to saving lives through both blood and organ donation.

Social

Rotary Club of Panaji Riviera & Jollyboard Limited Donate Advanced Phacoemulsification Machine to South Goa District Hospital

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

In a significant step toward strengthening public healthcare in Goa, the Rotary Club of Panaji Riviera, in partnership with Jollyboard Limited, has donated an advanced Phacoemulsification machine worth ₹25 lakh to the South Goa District Hospital in Margao. Another essential cataract equipment was also contributed through the Govindram Jolly Charitable Trust, further expanding the hospital’s ability to serve underprivileged patients. This initiative marks a meaningful advancement in the availability of high-quality cataract treatment, ensuring that individuals from economically weaker sections can benefit from free and advanced surgical care. Cataract remains one of the leading causes of preventable blindness in India, and access to cutting-edge technology such as this machine can dramatically reduce wait times, improve outcomes, and restore vision for countless individuals.

Rtn. Tanvi Attreya Sawant, Immediate Past President of Rotary Club of Panaji Riviera, emphasized the social impact of the donation, stating that the initiative would help restore independence and improve the quality of life for people across the state. For many families, the ability to access free, high-precision cataract surgery is transformative, removing financial barriers that often delay or prevent critical treatment. With this latest contribution, the Rotary Club of Panaji Riviera and Jollyboard Limited have together donated medical equipment worth ₹1.28 crore to the South Goa District Hospital, reflecting an ongoing commitment to strengthening healthcare infrastructure and uplifting communities.

The inauguration ceremony was graced by several distinguished dignitaries, including Rtn. Rashmi Jolly, Chairperson & Executive Director of Jollyboard Limited; Rtn. Vinaykumar Pai Raikar, Past District Governor RID 3170; Rtn. Lenny Dcosta, DGE RID 3170; and Dr. Rupa Naik, Director of the Directorate of Health Services, Government of Goa. Their presence underscored the importance of collaborative effort in addressing healthcare challenges and advancing public welfare. The initiative stands as a powerful example of how partnerships between NGOs, CSR bodies, and healthcare institutions can create long-lasting impact. Through continued dedication to community service, the Rotary Club of Panaji Riviera continues to inspire hope and drive positive change across Goa.