We at HOPE are both inspired and heartbroken at what our colleagues in Kolkata are dealing with during a devastating time. We wanted to share the stories of these inspirational heroes with you all, we think it shows the incredible people on the ground in Kolkata working tirelessly thanks to your donations. Our HOPE Heroes series will share thoughts and stories from our extraordinary colleagues.
Our second hero in the series is Sanjay Kumar Das.
Hero: Sanjay Kumar Das
Role: Social Worker of Hope Hospital & Hope Emergency Response Team
Posted at: HOPE Hospital
How long have you worked for HOPE?
Sanjay: I completed my studies from St. Mary’s Orphanage Day School, Dumdum, Kolkata. Then HOPE helped me to get a job in ABC India Private Limited, a transport Company in Assam. I worked there as a Logistic Manager for a year and a half. Then I came back to Kolkata and joined the HOPE Hospital. I am working there for the last ten years. HOPE has changed my life in many ways.
How did you know you wanted to work in social care?
Sanjay: : I have wanted social care because I have seen suffering and I too have suffered like the people living on the street and in the slums.
Are you from Kolkata?
Sanjay: Yes.
How does it feel to see such suffering in your home city?
Sanjay: It is terrible. Sometimes it makes me so sad seeing so much suffering.
How has working on the HOPE Emergency Response made you feel?
Sanjay: It gives me a huge mental satisfaction, that I have done something for the poor people of my country with the help of so many generous HOPE donors.
Has Cyclone Amphan and Covid-19 affected you or your family?
Sanjay: Everybody in the world has been affected by Covid pandemic. West Bengal suffered from Amphan also. Many people in the World have lost their jobs. Though I have not lost my job, but due to financial crisis I did not get full salary for my job last month. I hope situation will improve.
What do your family think of the work you are doing?
Sanjay: My family is always encouraging me to serve the poorest of poor people of our society as much as I can.
Do you have a message for the people who want to know how to help?
Sanjay: People who are living in streets of Kolkata are in desperate need in terms of health care support. People can support HOPE financially, or by offering volunteering services with HOPE. Even a little bit of smile and love can make changes in the lives of most vulnerable people of our society.
