When It Goes All Wrong: Shechinah’s Doors Are Open

Life has a way of turning upside down with a wrong decision, an accident, or a sudden illness. Shechinah’s Halfway House has witnessed many such transformations over the past decade.

“In the 10 years we have been running Shechinah, we have seen many individuals from all walks of life, including those in the B40 category,” says James Issachar, Founder of Shechinah.

James recounts a story of a wealthy bus company owner who, despite his success, faced unforeseen challenges. His family’s handling of the business led to a crisis, and feeling abandoned, he sought refuge at Shechinah while his company was torn apart.

Take Ramkumar, 57, a former pest control business owner who lost everything due to unresolved issues. He found solace at Shechinah after moving from Kluang. Unfortunately, while assisting with the move, Ramkumar suffered an infected wound from a nail in his shoe, leading to an amputation. He’s recovering but hopes for a prosthetic limb to continue his work.

Another resident, Pravin Gobi, 35, faced his own struggles. Once an e-hailing driver, Pravin fell into debt after a failed online business venture. He suffers severe foot injuries that require constant medical attention. Despite these challenges, he hopes to return to driving if he can rent a car.

The New Halfway House

In July, Shechinah moved to a new two-story detached house in Plentong, Johor Bahru. The new location, though farther from the city’s heart, offers lower rent and space for future projects like horticulture. The rent is RM1,000 per month, but James estimates an additional RM6,000 is needed for house repairs and improvements.

They still need RM9,000 to pay off the van used for transporting residents. The house requires various upgrades, including replacing a door, fixing wiring and plumbing, adding lights, and ideally repainting.

Diverse Residents

Shechinah currently houses eight residents with medical issues. Ramkumar is an amputee, Pravin has severe foot ailments, another resident has a heel injury, and another suffered a stroke. Only a few residents, like Nanda who drives the van and performs handiwork, are able to work.

James notes that Shechinah has “seasons” of different types of residents—some needing medical support, others struggling with addiction or transitioning from prison. The new house, being only two stories, lacks accommodation for women, though James is temporarily housing a domestic abuse case in his own home.

Free Support

Shechinah provides free accommodation to its residents as a temporary solution until they can regain stability. Residents are not charged and retain any welfare allowances they receive.

Ongoing Projects

While some projects like tuition in Kangkar Pulai are on hold due to a lack of volunteers, other initiatives continue. These include assisting Orang Asli villages in JB and Kahang, providing meals for B40 communities, and supporting homes for the aged and orphanages.

Meals of Hope and Love

Headed by Mdm Helen Boh, the Meals of Hope and Love program serves at least 100 meals weekly, considering dietary restrictions and preferences. Residents help prepare and pack meals, fostering a sense of community and purpose.

Funding Needs

Running the halfway house and supporting various projects requires donations. Shechinah is planning next year’s fundraising event, but in the meantime, donations can be made directly to Shechinah or through Sokong.