Shelter & Hope

WHEN young women from remote villages in Indonesia arrive in the city to study or work, they often face stark choices. Unable to afford safe housing, they risk ending up in precarious situations – subject to exploitation, coercion, or pressure to abandon their faith. “The girls struggle to find affordable housing, and are often forced to accept inadequate accommodation, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation and abuse,” says Sr. Fatima Martins, project supervisor from the Dominican Sisters of Blessed Imelda. “We aim to offer more than a shelter – a home… where individuals from different traditions, experiences, and backgrounds can live together, embracing unity in diversity.”

That home is Asrama Beata Imelda, a modest but vital dormitory in Pontianak, the capital of West Kalimantan on the island of Borneo. Pontianak, a city of over 700,000, blends Malay, Chinese, and Dayak cultures – rich in tradition, but not without challenges. Though strategically located near the Malaysian border and functioning as a regional trade hub, Pontianak still grapples with socio-economic hardship. Education, in particular, remains unevenly distributed. For students from poor rural areas, universities are often far away, and commuting is impractical. While many pass entrance exams, the lack of affordable housing can stand in the way of their academic future.

In this context, the mission of the Dominican Sisters of Blessed Imelda becomes both urgent and essential. Founded in Italy in 1917 by Venerable Father Giocondo Pio Lorgna, and officially recognized by the Church in 1922, the congregation has grown into an international presence active in ten countries – including Brazil, Vietnam, Cameroon, Bolivia, and Indonesia. The Sisters focus on education and pastoral care, especially for children and youth, promoting both human and spiritual formation. Their goal is to help individuals flourish within their local church and broader society.

The Indonesian mission began in 2010, with the Sisters establishing themselves first in Pontianak and later expanding to Ngabang in Landak District. Since their arrival, they have supported young people through school ministry, feeding programs, and the creation of the Asrama Beata Imelda dormitory that houses 20 to 25 young women, many of whom are students or workers far from home. The dormitory charges only a modest fee, and with the support of local benefactors, the Sisters are able to sustain basic operations.

€16,000 donated

However, tropical humidity, limited resources, and constant use had led to serious wear and tear of the building. Structural problems, water leaks, poor ventilation, and unsafe electrical wiring became pressing concerns. Renovation was no longer optional – it was necessary. The work was designed not only to preserve the dormitory, but to restore its role as a place of safety, dignity, and support.

The cost of the renovation came to €17,600. The Sisters contributed €1,600 from local sources, and St. Anthony’s Charities generously agreed to fund the remaining €16,000. Work began in January 2025, when students were away and the weather was suitable, and it was completed on March 31, 2025.

The renovation involved several key phases. The kitchen and bathrooms were rebuilt, the leaking roof dismantled and replaced with durable spandex sheeting, and the sink area and pipework repaired. Inside, the electrical system was upgraded – this involved installing new circuits, improving safety compliance, and modernizing outdated infrastructure. The interior walls and ceilings were repainted, and the dormitory’s fence and exterior also received new coats of paint. “We had to deal with non-removable furniture during painting,” says Sr. Fatima. “So the workers had to be extremely careful to avoid damage.”

Logistically, the renovation posed additional challenges. The site is closely surrounded by other properties, so removing old roofing and construction debris had to be done with precision to avoid causing damage or conflict with neighbors. Coordinating the contractor, securing electrical approvals, and staying on schedule required careful planning. “Changing the wiring meant upgrading the electrical panel and installing new circuits,” Sr. Fatima explains. “It was complex and required expert intervention.”

More focus

Yet despite these difficulties, the results have been deeply rewarding. “The renovation has significantly enhanced the lives of the students,” says Sr. Fatima. “They now enjoy improved living spaces – with better lighting, ventilation, and layout. Their mental and emotional well-being has visibly improved.” The atmosphere in the dormitory has changed. There is more pride, more peace, and more focus.

Lala, a student who joined the dormitory in 2021, says, “I’ve forged lasting friendships and built strong relationships. More importantly, I’ve never felt alone. This dormitory has shown me the profound impact of a supportive living environment. It’s been more than just a place to stay; it’s been a place where I’ve truly thrived.”

Chacha, an Informatics Engineering student who has lived at the Asrama since May 2022, shares how the dormitory has helped her grow: “My time here has significantly strengthened my mental resilience. I’ve learned to be independent and self-reliant, moving away from dependence on my parents. I’ve also developed a greater sense of discipline and organization, embracing the dormitory’s rules and thriving in a supportive community.”

She also notes the emotional transformation brought about by the renovation: “The stress that once weighed us down has been replaced by a sense of optimism and motivation. The new environment is much more conducive to study. Without the constant worry of water damage or the discomfort of poor ventilation, we can now focus our energy on our academic pursuits.”

Tangible difference

The Asrama is also a hub for study groups, formation sessions, and informal gatherings – bringing in other students and young women from the area. Its impact radiates beyond the immediate residents.

Thanks to the improvements, the Sisters believe the Asrama can host more students in the future, continuing to respond to growing demand. While the renovation was a one-time investment, the dormitory’s long-term sustainability is ensured. Student contributions, support from local benefactors, and the daily service of the Sisters are sufficient to maintain ongoing operations.

“The generous contribution from St. Anthony’s Charities and the readers of the Messenger of Saint Anthony has made a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve,” concludes Sr. Fatima. “The renovated building now offers improved living spaces, enhanced safety, and a more functional environment. These improvements will significantly enhance the quality of life for our students and allow us to better fulfil our mission. Thank you once again for your kindness and generosity.”