Missionary Sisters of I C. org

 Choice for Life with the elderly.  recent interview by Fr. Moacir, OFM,Cap was held with Sr. Margareth regarding her work with the elderly through the SEFRAS (Franciscan Services) in São Paulo. Sr. Margareth Crispim, a social worker, has been in mission since 2005 and has been instrumental in organizing to meet the needs of the people whom SEFRAS serves, especially the elderly population who are also living in  lower socioeconomic means.
      (this article is translated and edited from its original found on the Franciscan website:   www.franciscanos.org.br )

On the work of Clare House:  Clare House has served various demands- children, pregnant women, elderly, etc.  At one point, Fr. José asked that a social service program be created specifically for the elderly. I proceeded to ask the staff and volunteers to present some ideas.  After that, a grant project was made and space and the implementation of the ideas was begun.  It is predicted that in 2025  Brazil will be the 6^th Country most populous with aging persons.   For this reason, work needs to be done now to affect the social policies so that the elderly are treated humanely.  Consequently our Center serves meals and offers activities so that the participants can engage with one another.

The type of person  served is low income and often is abandoned by a family who feels the person is “dead weight” because the person no longer contributes to the family even though he/she receives a retirement benefit. Depression, isolation and violence (physical violence is a big concern).  At the Center, through participation in activities that are both relational and concrete (arts and crafts), the person feels valued, welcomed and loved.

Statistics report that 80% are treated badly and Sr. Margareth verified that she does see some persons with marks and scars but that the people do not want the SEFRAS program to seek resolution of this.   Our role is to orient the elderly about their rights and where to seek help in situations of violence.

click here to finish reading