Finding Hope Global, an organisation involved in humanitarian work in the US, Romania, and Brazil, has set its foot in Nagaland by opening a healthcare service christened as “Hope Healthcare and Diagnostic Lab” at the Multipurpose Educational Centre, Naga United Village, Dimapur.
The lab was inaugurated by advisor of Agriculture, Mhathung Yanthan in the presence of Finding Hope Global Director, Dr. Nathan Merrill after a dedicatory prayer by Rev Dr. P. Dozo.
The initiative, undertaken in collaboration with the Finding Hope Global, aims to provide essential medical services to those facing financial hardships. Yanthan in his address, appreciated Finding Hope Global for bringing the initiative to Nagaland, describing it as not just a diagnostic center but a mission committed to providing essential healthcare services to those in need.
He said the launch of the facility brings a beacon of hope, especially for homeless individuals and those struggling to access medical care. Highlighting the challenges of healthcare accessibility in Nagaland, particularly in rural areas, Yanthan stressed on the importance of collaboration between the government, private institutions, NGOs, and local communities to ensure that the initiative achieve success.
“The government alone cannot address all healthcare needs, but through collective efforts, we can improve medical infrastructure and service delivery,” he said. He urged local stakeholders, including the village council, to extend their support in sustaining the facility.
Highlighting on the government-led healthcare initiatives, including the Chief Minister’s Health Insurance Scheme (CMHIS), as well as the Ayushman Bharat scheme, Yanthan said efforts are being undertaken to collaborate with private organizations and charitable entities to further enhance healthcare services in the region.
Expressing optimism about the impact of Finding Hope India, he said its presence in Nagaland would significantly improve healthcare access and delivery. Delivering key note address, Yanren Kikon, shared a personal journey that led to this initiative.
He said the healthcare center will offer consultations, medications, and diagnostic services at significantly reduced costs—up to 60% discounts—and, in cases of severe financial distress, free treatment. Initially, medical professionals from Nagaland will lead the operations, with international specialists expected to join in the future.
The project will begin with a pathology lab, later will include a minor operation theater (OT), with the long-term possibility of evolving into a full-fledged hospital.
The funding model will be structured with support from the American organization, ensuring financial sustainability. A dedicated team in the U.S. will work on securing funds, while local efforts will continue to raise support.
“We are laying the foundation today. It will be a slow process, but with community support, we hope to make this a fully operational healthcare facility soon,” Yanren said.
Dr. Nathan Merrill, founder of Finding Hope Global, shared his journey in humanitarian work while announcing new initiatives aimed at transforming lives in the region.
Recounting his extensive travels across South America, Africa, and Asia, Dr. Merrill expressed deep appreciation for the warmth and hospitality he encountered in Nagaland, calling it a “breath of fresh air.”
Reflecting on the origins of Finding Hope Global, he shared how the initiative took root in Romania, inspired by his wife’s personal experience as an orphan. What began as a single children’s home gradually expanded into a non-profit supporting over 40 children.
Over the years, the organization extended its outreach to the United States, Brazil, and now, India.
In Romania, Finding Hope Global operates multiple children’s homes, while in Brazil, it runs after-school programs for children from underserved communities, providing them with access to education and support. The organization has also launched children’s homes and community projects in the United States.
The expansion to Nagaland was a long-anticipated effort, the result of years of planning and discussions. Initially, the organization aimed to establish a children’s home similar to those in Romania. However, evolving priorities and pressing community needs led to a shift in focus toward healthcare services.
“As a medical doctor, I have always been passionate about healthcare initiatives. Years ago, my father and I set up medical clinics in the Amazon jungles of Venezuela. That experience shaped my vision for integrating medical support into Finding Hope Global’s mission,” Dr. Merrill said.
He emphasized that sustainable initiatives require time, resources, and strong community participation. He expressed confidence that the healthcare project in Nagaland would flourish, making quality medical care accessible to those who need it most.
“Many people struggle to afford essential healthcare services. Our goal is to bridge this gap by providing medical assistance, expert care, and ensuring that no one is left behind,” he said. The inaugural programme concluded with vote of thanks was by Rev. Dr Ruokuovilie Sachu and closing prayer by Naga United Village Baptist Church pastor Kuhusheyi Chotso.