The Paphos District Association for the Welfare of the Elderly and the Needy (ESEHA) continues its long-standing mission of social support, emphasizing that old age is not a period of inactivity or isolation. Founded in 1981, the organization focuses on providing care, companionship, and assistance to elderly individuals and vulnerable groups within the community.
Anthie Leonidou Stroppou, president of ESEHA, stated that while societal needs have evolved over the decades, the fundamental human desire to feel connected and valued remains constant. She emphasized that the elderly possess significant life experience and knowledge, and that the association aims to promote active aging by ensuring dignity and social participation for seniors.
The organization’s philosophy is rooted in the teachings of its founder, the late Archimandrite Alexios, who advocated for selfless service and compassion. His principles, including the belief that work is a form of prayer, continue to guide the association’s current board members, which include Vice President Father Heraklis Christodoulides, Secretary Eirini Zarpetea, Treasurer Persoula Miltiadous, and Assistant Treasurer Panikos Athanasiou, alongside several board members.
ESEHA’s activities include the annual Elderly Festival, which provides opportunities for socialization and recreation, as well as educational lectures on health, nutrition, and mental well-being. The association also organizes excursions to combat loneliness and provides material support to vulnerable families during the Christmas and Easter periods. Beyond organized events, the group conducts visits to nursing homes and care facilities, prioritizing human connection and emotional support over purely material aid.
Stroppou noted that the association’s effectiveness relies on collaboration between local government, the Church, state services, and volunteers. She highlighted that the primary goal of ESEHA remains ensuring that no individual feels forgotten, maintaining a commitment to supporting those in need through a network of care and community involvement.
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