KOCHI: 12 families will receive land as 'Vishu Kaineetam' on this Vishu. Their dreams for sweet and safe homes will soon become a reality, thanks to Sister Lizzy Chakkalakkal. The houses will be built as part of Sister Lissy's 'House Challenge' at Edakkattuvayal on the land provided by Kottayam Devalokam native Jose Thomas and his wife Dr Elsy Thomas. The transfer of land was inaugurated by Archbishop Anthony Kariyil, Vicar of the Angamaly Archdiocese of Ernakulam, at a function held at Thrikkakara. The houses will be handed over to 2 families from Ernakulam and 10 families from Kottayam. The works will be completed within 4 months.

Jose Thomas is a Chartered Accountant in Kottayam. Dr Elsy is working in a private hospital in Kottayam. They are preparing to go to their children in America.

The 'House Challenge' was started to build homes for homeless students with the help of well-wishers. So far, 150 houses have been built as part of this program. Six houses are under construction. The first house was handed over to a student from Chellanam. Sister Lissy was moved by the tears of joy she saw on the faces of the student's family and neighbours that day. No caste or religion was considered to provide housing and assistance to the deserving. The renovation of the houses in Santom Colony and the construction of houses in 72 cents in Vypin were milestones.