About Us
WHERE COMPASSION MEETS PURPOSE, AND HOPE FINDS A HOME
Our Story
Note from the Founder
My journey was shaped by a legacy of compassion — deeply rooted in my family, who gave selflessly to those in need. From an early age, I was taught that service is not an act, but a way of life.
The seeds of my commitment to elder care were planted during childhood visits to old age homes, where moments of connection revealed the profound impact of being present, listening, and caring. That sense of purpose never left me.
As a medical student, I was drawn to the margins — volunteering in destitute shelters and slum clinics, seeking ways to ease suffering. One turning point came while distributing free medicines in an underserved community. I realized then that the true cure extended beyond treating illness. If even one child in each family could be empowered through education, the cycle of poverty could be broken, and a future of dignity restored.
Despite limited resources, Mr. Anand and I dedicated ourselves to educating and supporting those we could. But we knew that to truly expand the circle of care, we needed a collective effort — a platform to unite kindred spirits who shared the same calling.
Thus, Samara Foundation was born — not just as a charitable trust, but as a movement of compassion. A sanctuary for those who cannot afford the care they deserve. A voice for those too often left unheard.
Through Samara, we reaffirm a simple truth: Every life matters, and every act of care holds the power to transform.
With hope and humility,
Dr. Reena Mathew
Founder, Samara Foundation
Who We Are
At Samara Foundation:We Believe That To Love Is To Serve
And we see ourselves as a tree planted by the riverside, rooted in purpose, nourished by compassion, and reaching out with open arms. In every season, whether in sunshine or storm, we strive to be a source of life for the community around us by offering shade without judgment, bearing fruit without expectation, and standing firm with quiet strength. Every project we envision—be it in education, health, elder care, or empowerment, extended in love. Like a tree that gives generously to all who seek rest under its canopy.
We believe true transformation begins when giving becomes unconditional, and service becomes a way of life.
Our Team
Dr. Reena Mathew
Founder
Dr. Reena Mathew, Founder of Samara Foundation, is a seasoned
Consultant Diabetologist and Family Physician with over 20 years of clinical excellence. An alumna of Kasturba Medical College, she has contributed to more than 50 clinical trials in diabetes and osteoporosis.Her true distinction lies in her deep compassion, particularly for the elderly and the underserved.
With over a decade of experience in Geriatric and Palliative Medicine, she also founded Aldercare — a centre dedicated to holistic elder care. Dr. Reena’s commitment to grassroots impact is reflected in her community health initiatives, medical camps, and educational drives. Through Samara Foundation, she continues her life’s mission — to heal, uplift, and serve with dignity and compassion.
Mr. Anand Mathew
Secretary & Treasurer
Anand Mathew is a seasoned IT professional with over two decades of experience, currently holding a senior leadership role in the technology sector. Known for his strategic insight and unwavering commitment to excellence, he brings a wealth of operational and managerial expertise to the Foundation.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Anand is passionate about mentoring young minds — guiding them to realize their potential and build lives anchored in integrity, resilience, and purpose. As Secretary and Treasurer of Samara Foundation, he plays a vital role in shaping the organization’s vision and ensuring transparency, accountability, and long-term impact.
Mrs. Aliz Daniel
Managing Trustee
Aliz Daniel is an accomplished healthcare professional and an alumna of Nanavati Hospital, Mumbai. Her career includes key roles with the Ministry of Health in Saudi Arabia, where she served as a Nursing Supervisor, and senior positions in prestigious institutions like Vydehi Medical College. However, her most defining experience was as the Nursing Superintendent at Karun Ashraya Hospice, where she discovered her true calling — providing compassionate care to terminally ill patients.
Her work there involved not only managing complex medical needs but also offering emotional and psychological support to patients and their families. This profound experience inspired her lifelong dedication to geriatric and palliative care.
Mr. Johnson Samuel
Advisory Board Member
Mr. Johnson Samuel is the CEO of Compass Finances God’s Way – South Asia and has held key administrative and financial leadership roles across multiple organizations. As a Master Trainer in Financial Stewardship, he conducts seminars on personal finance, debt counselling, and business principles.
A former lecturer and long-standing board member of several charitable and social organizations, Johnson brings both expertise and empathy to every role. A philanthropist at heart, he is committed to empowering individuals and uplifting communities through wise stewardship and compassionate leadership. He holds a Master’s degree in Science from the University of Mumbai.
Acca Machado
Advisory Board Member
Acca Machado is an advocate with nearly a decade of experience in justice system strengthening and anti-trafficking initiatives. Between 2012 and 2022, she was engaged in leading legal interventions addressing bonded labour and human trafficking cases across Karnataka. Her work involved guiding litigation strategies, collaborating with members of the judiciary and prosecution, and contributing to efforts aimed at strengthening the public justice system.
Acca also brings experience in leading multidisciplinary teams, mentoring legal professionals, and partnering with civil society organizations to support effective case management and survivor-centered justice. As an Advisory Member of the Foundation, she contributes her legal expertise and strategic perspective to advance initiatives that protect vulnerable communities and promote dignity, justice, and sustainable social impact
With Your Help, We are Making The World a Better Place
In every community, there are lives quietly battling hardship,
often unseen and unheard. At Samara Foundation, we believe
true care begins with recognizing these stories. With empathy at
our core, we strive to offer not just support, but respect, hope,
and the chance for a better tomorrow. Because every kind
gesture, no matter how small, holds the power to transform a
life.
Your Donations Make a HUGE Impact
AT SAMARA FOUNDATION – WE
BELIEVE THAT TO LOVE IS TO
SERVE.
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