CLUNY HOSPICE ST JOSEPHS HOSPICE IN KARAIKAL

Karaikal is an enclave of the union Territory of Pondicherry standing on the northern bank of Arisalar about 2 km from its estuary. Karaikal is a growing town and is an asset to the union Territory of Pondicherry in many accounts. At the invitation of Govenor of Pondicherry the administrator of Karaikal and under the orders of his Lordship the Apostolic Vicar of Pondicheryy Mgr. Bonnard the sisters of St.Joseph of Cluny came to Karikal on 7th February 1844. At first the sisters taught needle work and spinning to Franco-Indian girls. A few months later a French school was opened where the medium of instruction was both French and English. Along with schools the sisters also started a small orphanage since Karaikal had a lot of poor people around. This small orphanage later on turned into a home for the aged. With the generous help of Madam Laforge a beautiful home was built for the old and abandoned people. It was blessed and inaugurated on 30.01.1897. On the very first day there were 2 aged inmates. As days passed by the strength increased. We have facilities for 75 women and 25 men. Our home is opened to all irrespective of Religion, Race, caste and Creed.