Jampaling Old People’s Home, Dharamsala (74 Elders)

For senior Tibetan refugees living in exile, elderly homes are more than places of shelter – they are sanctuaries of respect, protection, and kindness in the final chapters of life. Many elders have no family backing and live with chronic illness, limited mobility, or advanced age, relying entirely on the compassion and commitment of their communities and benefactors.

Since 2016, FPMT’s Social Services Fund (SSF) has been providing essential, sustained help to Tibetan elder refugees across India, ensuring access to food, medical assistance, safe housing, and daily assistance. In 2026, this commitment continued with a total of US$247,591 provided to eight elder homes, addressing both annual running expenses and critical infrastructure and repair needs. Contributions were also made to two additional projects in Tibetan settlements focused on the care and well-being of elders. This report highlights the positive impact of the 2026 grants, offering much to rejoice in through these compassionate activities. Please continue to read about the valuable elder homes we currently support.

Jampaling Old People’s Home | Kalimpong Old People’s Home | Dhonden Old People’s Home  | Lugsam Samduling Old People’s Home | Old and Infirm People’s Home |  Rabgayling Old People’s Home | Dhondenling Old People’s Home | Phuntsok Ling Old People’s Home | The Tibetan Settlement in Dalhousie | Paonta Cholsum Tibetan Settlement | Thank you!

Jampaling Old People’s Home in Dharamsala is the largest Tibetan-run elder care facility of its kind, providing daily assistance, shelter, and medical care to 74 elderly residents without family backing. Established in 1991 and managed by the Department of Home, Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), Jampaling is a place of safety, dignity, and compassion for elderly Tibetan refugees.

For nearly a decade, FPMT’s Social Services Fund has been a cornerstone of this initiative. Since 2016, the fund has provided annual help toward Jampaling’s running expenses, helping cover essential costs such as food, medical custody, staff salaries, utilities, and daily necessities – ensuring continuity of care year after year.

In 2026, Jampaling Old People’s Home received a grant to help cover a shortfall in its annual operating budget, meeting essential expenses such as food, healthcare, staff salaries, utilities, and other day-to-day running costs. In addition, a separate one-off grant was approved for major internal repairs and renovations. These included the conversion of an existing garage into a dedicated health clinic; the creation of a new communal dining hall from a former clinic and storeroom; repairs to the drainage system between the residential building and kitchen; and the replacement of outdated electrical wiring and switchboards in one of the residential blocks. Funding also provided furniture and essential equipment for the new facilities, together with minor repairs to staff accommodation. Collectively, these improvements have significantly enhanced the health, safety, and comfort of the elderly residents.

Kalimpong Old People’s Home, West Bengal (12 Elders)

Located in the hill town of Kalimpong in West Bengal, the Kalimpong Old People’s Home (OPH) provides essential care and security to elderly Tibetans who have no family or financial support. Established in 2008 with the facilitation of Ottawa Friends of Tibet, and completed in 2012, the home currently looks after 12 elderly residents. Although Kalimpong is home to more than 3,000 Tibetans, the community is widely dispersed rather than living in a compact settlement. This isolation leaves many elderly individuals particularly vulnerable, making the Kalimpong OPH an essential source of stability and belonging. The home is managed by the Department of Home, Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) and run by a dedicated team of five staff members, who provide daily meals, healthcare aid, assistance with daily activities, and emotional companionship. In addition to elders from Kalimpong itself, the home also guides residents from nearby regions such as Darjeeling, Gangtok, and even Bhutan, extending its helping hand beyond the immediate town.

Since 2022, the Social Services Fund has played a crucial role in sustaining the Kalimpong OPH by supporting its operational and running expenses. In 2026, Kalimpong OPH received funds to address a shortfall in its annual operating budget, covering essential needs, including food, medical expenses, propane, residents’ pocket money, funeral firewood, and other general operational expenses.

Dhonden Old People’s Home, Chauntra, Bir, Himachal Pradesh (23 Elders) here the Dhonden OPH residents with their new cookware sets

Dhonden Old People’s Home (OPH) is located in the tranquil Bir-Chauntra settlement in the Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh. Nestled in a peaceful rural setting, the home provides long‑term custody and stability to 23 elderly Tibetans, all over the age of 60, who are without family support or financial means. Established in 2004 with the generous sponsorship of the Help Tibet Association (London), the construction of Dhonden OPH was financed through grants and loans that have since been fully repaid with interest. Today, the home stands as a secure and nurturing environment for elders who previously lived in scattered Tibetan communities across Kullu-Manali, Bir, and nearby regions, often in isolation and hardship. The home is managed by the Department of Home, Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) and operated by a dedicated team of five staff members. These staff provide daily meals, medical support, assistance with daily activities, helping some of the most vulnerable members of the Tibetan community.

Since 2021, the Social Services Fund has assisted Dhonden OPH by contributing toward its operational and running expenses. In 2026, Dhonden OPH received a grant to cover a gap in its annual operating budget. The funding was used to meet essential operational expenses, including staff salaries, stationery, travel allowances, water and electricity charges, vehicle repairs and fuel, medical care, and clothing for residents. This support helped ensure the continued delivery of care and services to elderly residents throughout the year.

Lugsam Samduling Home for the Aged and Disabled, Bylakuppe (40 Elders).

Lugsam Samduling Old People’s Home (OPH) in Bylakuppe, Karnataka, is a vital elder‑care facility managed by the Department of Home, Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), providing daily assistance and companionship to around 40 elderly Tibetans. With a committed team of caregivers and help from volunteers, the home ensures nutritious meals, age‑appropriate medical attention, and a safe, respectful living environment. During 2025-2026, elders benefited from a full medical check‑up camp, regular hospital supervision, and spiritual support, including a visit from the 41st Sakya Kyabgon Gongma Trichen Rinpoche.

The FPMT’s Social Services Fund has sustained the Lugsam Samduling OPH’s annual running expenses since 2016, playing a crucial role in sustaining food provision, medical care, staff salaries, utilities, and maintenance. For 2026, a grant was offered toward the home’s annual expenses. Looking ahead, the Lugsam Samduling OPH plans a gardening and beautification initiative in 2026 to create a calmer, greener environment that promotes the elders’ mental and emotional well‑being.

Doegueling Old and Infirm People’s Home, Mundgod (50 Elders). Here a Doeguling Mundgod OIPH’s resident Dolker Wangmo receiving blessings from His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

The Old and Infirm People’s Home (OIPH) at Mundgod Doeguling Tibetan Settlement, South India, provides round‑the‑clock care, medical assistance, and a safe living environment for 50 elderly residents, many of whom are over 80 years old and living with chronic or life‑limiting health conditions. The home is administered by the Department of Home, Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) and reinforced by a devoted team of caregivers, including medical and support staff.

The FPMT’s Social Services Fund (SSF) has contributed toward OIPH’s annual running expenses continuously since 2016, helping ensure stability in essential services such as food, medical care, staff salaries, utilities, and daily operational needs. In 2026, the SSF provided funds toward the home’s recurring annual costs. In addition to core operations, the 2026 grant also included funding for welded wire mesh fencing along the verandah to improve safety and provide greater peace of mind for elders at night, as well as key infrastructure requirements to facilitate the relocation of elderly residents from Block 6. These improvements are especially important for frail and mobility-limited elders, helping reduce the risk of falls, exposure to weather, and related health complications.

Rabgayling Old People’s Home, Hunsur (13 Elders), here the residents enjoying their meals.

Rabgayling Old People’s Home (OPH), located within the Rabgayling Tibetan Settlement in Karnataka, provides residential care, daily support, and companionship to 13 elderly residents. The home is administered by the Department of Home, Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) and serves elders who rely on the community for safety and stability in their later years. The FPMT’s Social Services Fund has backed the Rabgayling OPH’s annual running expenses consistently since 2015, ensuring continuity of essential services such as food, utilities, medical attention, and staff support.

For 2026, a grant was offered toward the home’s annual operating costs, helping meet day‑to‑day needs and maintain a secure living environment for the elders. Beyond daily care, Rabgayling OPH continues to strengthen its facilities to improve safety and long‑term living conditions. Planned improvements include upgrades to drainage, better lighting, exterior maintenance, and infrastructure enhancements to protect elders from weather, structural risks, and safety concerns.

Dhondenling Old People’s Home, Kollegal (20 Elders)

Dhondenling Old People’s Home (OPH), located within the Dhondenling Tibetan Settlement in Kollegal, Karnataka, provides nutritious meals and medical support to elderly Tibetans who depend entirely on community assistance. The home is administered by the Department of Home, Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) and serves elders with limited financial means and increasing health
needs.

Residents of Dhondenling OPH extend their warm wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year 2026 to all members of the FPMT

The FPMT’s Social Services Fund has supported Dhondenling OPH’s annual running expenses since 2018, playing a vital role in sustaining food provision, medical care, and basic daily operations. For 2026, funds were offered toward the home’s annual costs, helping ensure that elders continue to receive proper nutrition and necessary medical attention.

Phuntsokling Old People’s Home, Odisha (13 Elders), here Phuntsokling OPH’s resident Samten Choetso

Phuntsok Ling Old People’s Home (OPH), located within the PhuntsLinok g Tibetan Settlement in Odisha, is a friendly community for the elderly, caring for 13 residents, including four bedridden seniors, sustained by a capable team of five staff members. The home is administered by the Department of Home, Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) and plays a vital role in ensuring dignity
and stability for elders living far from their homeland. The FPMT’s Social Services Fund has supported Phuntsok Ling OPH since 2021, helping to sustain essential services, including food provision, medical care, staff salaries, and day-to-day operational
expenses.

One of the the households in Odisha affected by the severe rainstorm in 2026.

In 2026, the grant was allocated for the renovation of the Phuntsok Ling OPH, including urgent repair works required after cyclone-related damage, as well as the renovation of homes belonging to three destitute households. In May 2026, severe rainfall caused substantial damage to the homes, resulting in roof leaks, water damage, and weakened structures. Renovation support enabled the necessary repairs, improving the overall living conditions of the affected families.

Tibetan Settlement Office Dalhousie. The Dalhousie Phuntsokling Tibetan Settlement proudly welcomes Sikyong Penpa Tsering from the Central Tibetan Administration, August 2025. Photo Courtesy: Tenzin Phende, CTA

The Tibetan Settlement in Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh, was established as part of a rehabilitation effort to resettle Tibetan families scattered across the Chamba region, bringing them together into a cohesive community that could preserve Tibetan culture while ensuring better access to welfare and social support services. Within this settlement, the Tsering Khang and Kalsang Khang
residential buildings, constructed in 2007, are home to 49 households, many of whom are elderly Tibetans who depend on a safe and healthy living environment. The Whitewash of Buildings Project was initiated to address long‑term deterioration caused by
exposure to weather, moisture, and aging infrastructure. The buildings had not been whitewashed since their construction, leading to peeling paint, damp walls, and conditions conducive to the growth of harmful fungi and mold – posing serious health risks for elderly residents, particularly those with respiratory or age‑related illnesses. By applying protective whitewash, the project helps prevent moisture retention, improves hygiene, and contributes to a healthier indoor environment for older residents. In 2026, FPMT’s Social Services Fund offered a small grant toward this project, enabling essential whitewashing and maintenance work to be carried out.

On 8th September 2026, elderly residents of the Paonta Cholsum Tibetan Settlement were deeply blessed to receive an audience with His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama.

Paonta Cholsum Tibetan Settlement, located in Himachal Pradesh, India, is home to more than 1,000 Tibetans, including many elderly community members who have contributed greatly to preserving Tibetan culture and community life in exile. In 2026, FPMT’s Social Services Fund sponsored the costs for a special pilgrimage for elders aged 65 and above to attend a private audience with His Holiness the Dalai Lama in Dharamshala. The funding enabled 45 elderly residents, accompanied by 4 camp leaders and 2 volunteers, to travel safely and comfortably, covering transportation, accommodation, meals, and other essential expenses. For many participants, this precious opportunity to receive the blessings from His Holiness was the fulfillment of a long-held aspiration and a deeply meaningful expression of gratitude and care for the settlement’s senior community members.

Thank you!

The stories and updates in this blog reflect more than numbers or projects – they reflect lives cared for with respect, patience, and compassion. Through consistent operational support and timely infrastructure improvements, FPMT’s Social Services Fund has helped ensure that elderly Tibetans can live their remaining years in peace and comfort. The US$247,591 granted in 2026 to eight elder homes represents not only financial assistance, but a continuation of a long‑standing promise: that elders who carried the weight of displacement, survival, and cultural preservation are not forgotten. As the needs of aging communities continue to grow, sustained support remains essential. With deep gratitude to all donors, partners, and caretakers, this work stands as a living expression of compassion in action – and an ongoing commitment to serve those who once served their people so faithfully.

We deeply appreciate your support, together, we can help these resilient communities build stronger and safer environments, ensuring that the Tibetan elders continue to live with dignity and peace. 

Your continued support to the Social Services Fund, helps ensure continuous assistance for elderly homes and those who are in need.