The humanitarian work in Mauritius has grown entirely from the initiative, resources, and compassion of the local community, guided by Amma’s teachings on love and selfless service. “Amma’s grace has silently taken roots in this island country of Mauritius through the sincere seva of the local devotees,” says Swami Yogamritananda Puri. The Amma Centre is based in Quatres Bornes.
Daily food service anchors the work: volunteers prepare breakfast each morning for about 35 residents at a local shelter, and free meals (Annadaanam) follow the Sunday gatherings. Teams of 15 to 20 devotees regularly visit elderly care homes, shelters for the homeless, and facilities for people with disabilities, bringing supplies, bed linens, study materials, and the warmth of music and conversation. “You have become like our family,” residents often tell them.
Education is a special focus. In 2023 devotees donated 70 school bags to honour Amma’s 70th birthday, and 72 the following year. Before the pandemic, about 50 families received monthly ration kits — a commitment volunteers sustained through the COVID-19 outbreak.
Anti-drug awareness talks, tree planting, street cleanups, and yoga classes round out the service. During Maha Shivratri, when roughly half a million pilgrims visit the island’s 108-foot Shiva statue, the centre offers two nights of shelter, rest, and continuous food.
