Caring for elderly citizens is one of the primary responsibilities of social services.

To ensure comfortable living conditions for people who have reached retirement age but, due to their life circumstances, cannot provide full care for themselves, in December 2005, the "Svetlitsa" department of round-the-clock stay for elderly citizens and disabled persons was opened in the agro-town of Kamen, Lepel District Territorial Centre for Social Services (TSSN).

These days, "Svetlitsa" is celebrating the 20th anniversary of its operation, and during this period, approximately 500 elderly citizens have experienced genuine home-like care here.

The department has been headed by Elena Chuvilina since its foundation, who can talk for hours about the residents of "Svetlitsa". Many employees have also dedicated two decades of their professional activity, sharing care and warmth with those in need.

Congratulations on the anniversary were extended to the staff and residents of the round-the-clock stay department by Marina Inozemtseva, Head of the Department for Labour, Employment and Social Protection of the District Executive Committee; Natalia Ivanova, Director of the Lepel District TSSN; Alesya Erashova, Acting Chairperson of the Kamensky Village Council and Chairperson of the Lepel District organisation of the Republican Party of Labour and Justice, and other guests.

They noted that the department's activity is a true mission of kindness, love, and mercy.

Thanks to the daily work of a cohesive team of employees, comfortable living conditions, close to home, have been created, as they approach their work with warmth and a desire to bring benefit and good into this world.

Marina Inozemtseva, on behalf of the district leadership, also wished everyone good health, well-being, and prosperity, presenting Elena Chuvilina, the head of the department, with a gift certificate for a vegetable slicer.

Musical performances were provided by participants of the vocal ensemble "Garmoniya" of the Lepel District TSSN and the vocal group "Berezhnytsy" of the Kamensky Rural Cultural and Leisure Centre.

Sweet surprises were also prepared for the residents of "Svetlitsa".