A “Pusaka” is an Indonesian non-profit organization that focuses on providing services for the community, in general. Some, however, provide free meals and activities specifically for the disadvantaged elderly  (over 65 years of age). Many are often no longer supported by family and have no pension or other forms of assistance. Originally, the Pusaka started back in the 1990s from initiatives within the community. Now there are over 50 Pusaka all over Indonesia. 

 

Those underprivileged elderly in the area apply to become part of the Pusaka program through their neighbourhood Head (RT), who works closely with each Pusaka. After verifying the data and visiting the applicants at their homes, the Pusaka management will then decide on eligibility.

 

Those elderly who are registered through a Pusaka program are entitled to receive a nutritious, hot meal daily. This consists of rice, two protein dishes, vegetables, and fruit, which they collect every morning in their “rantang” (metal food carriers). In addition, they have free half-yearly medical checkups and are registered for funeral services.

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The services provided are a food kitchen for the disadvantaged elderly as follows:

• Five take-away meals cooked weekly (Monday to Friday). 

• Qu'ran reciting once a week

• Facilitates bi-monthly medical checkups via the Puskesmas for 49 elderly (blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar)

• Funeral services (kamboja)

• A monthly meal/support for local orphans and families headed by single mothers

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Currently, SI Jakarta (Indonesia) is donating funds monthly to support the Pusaka 10 community food kitchen for the elderly in central Jakarta. To support more of the disadvantaged elderly in the area, Pusaka 10 needs more donors.