Bringing Health Care to Migrant Workers

Posted by Spalding Hurst

July 7, 2026

Every day, thousands of migrant workers travel to Bangalore in search of work, taking jobs in construction, manufacturing, and other industries that keep the city growing. Many live far from their families with limited income, long work hours, and few opportunities to seek medical care. Language barriers, transportation challenges, and the cost of treatment often mean illnesses go untreated until they become serious.

Recognizing this need, Sister Jessie Saldanha and Sister Sheeli Chinnarani joined St. John’s Medical College Hospital, the Indian Social Institute’s Department of Labor Migration, and St. Anthony’s Friary Church for a free medical camp serving migrant workers. Together with volunteer medical students, the team provided health screenings, free medicines, meals, and referrals for continued care at reduced cost.

More than 400 migrant workers received care during the first camp, with additional clinics planned in the coming months. For many participants, it was their first opportunity to receive medical attention without worrying about cost. Through partnerships like these, the Sisters continue to stand alongside people on the margins, making compassionate health care more accessible to those who need it most.

4 Comments

  1. Tess Browne

    Srs Jessie and Sheeli, thank you and your partners for living Matt 25 in real time, through compassionate welcoming the stranger, treating the sick and feeding the hungry. 🙏🏼 A witness to the values of life and mercy.💞

    Reply
  2. sincy sebastian

    Thank you Sisters Jessie and Sheeli for this wonderful work of reaching out to the migrants. God bless you.

    Reply
  3. Liz Field

    This is wonderful and very hopeful news! Thank you, Sisters, for this needed ministry! Let us pray for the migrants trying to live in the USA will receive more support and welcome in this country!

    Reply
  4. Carolyn Smeltzer

    The is just so wonderful Reminds me of the hospitals the SCN created in the 1800’s. I do this work on so much of a lesser scale I volunteer at Open Arms Clinic , a free clinic for those who cannot afford or are not qualified for Medicare . Heath care is essential to lead a productive life

    Reply

Submit a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

You May Also Like…

Nazareth the Beautiful

Nazareth the Beautiful

A new book invites readers to experience Nazareth through photographs, history, Scripture, and the words of those who helped shape the spiritual life of the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth. Nazareth the Beautiful is now available for purchase.

Girls Rising in Rajgir

Girls Rising in Rajgir

For more than two decades, Sister Rose Plathottam has helped girls from marginalized communities in Bihar, India, pursue education and new opportunities. At Chirag Vidyalaya, more than 200 girls have graduated, including former students who now work as nurses and other professionals, creating new possibilities for themselves and their families.

A Lasting Legacy, Frannie Groom Remembered

A Lasting Legacy, Frannie Groom Remembered

Frances “Frannie” Groom returned to Nazareth one final time on Oct. 6, when Sisters gathered for her burial in the SCN Cemetery. A former Sister, longtime donor, and Legacy Society member, Frannie remained connected to Nazareth throughout her life and chose to make the community her final resting place.