Govt. pledges support for vulnerable, homeless people - The HinduUpdated - September 19, 2026 09:05 pm IST - VIJAYAWADAPeople living with mental illness on the streets are among the most vulnerable sections of society, and yet they are often overlooked, G. Veerapandian, Principal Secretary of Health, Medical and Family Welfare Department said, while appreciating Manobandhu Foundation’s efforts in reaching out to such persons.Taking part as the chief guest in the foundation’s 5th Insight Annual Gathering in Vijayawada on Saturday, Mr. Veerapandian said the State government would support the organisation in its efforts to rescue, treat, rehabilitate and reunite families of homeless persons with mental illness.Mr. Veerapandian highlighted the Tele-MANAS mental-health counselling service run by the government, which can be accessed through the helpline 14416.Later, Y.D. Rama Rao, the Chairman of Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS) Andhra Pradesh Branch, announced that IRCS would provide an ambulance for the forthcoming State-wide rescue campaign planned by the foundation.Manobandhu Foundation Managing Trustee Bhupathiraju Ramakrishnam Raju said that during the year 2025-26, they rescued 105 persons, reunited 27 persons with their families, and facilitated continued care for 51 persons through partner shelter homes. Fifty-five persons were rescued as part of the State-wide campaign conducted in partnership with the Indian Red Cross Society, A.P. Branch, he added.Published - September 19, 2026 09:04 pm ISTSign in to unlock member-only benefits!Access 10 free stories every monthSave stories to read laterAccess to comment on every storySign-up/manage your newsletter subscriptions with a single clickGet notified by email for early access to discounts & offers on our products${ ind + 1 } ${ device }Last active - ${ la }