Free 750 Indian families from debt and deprivation

As part of our project to uplift the marginalised Arunthathiyar community, field staff from our partner Arogya Agam try to ensure that Arunthathiyar children, especially girls, stay in school so that they can gain qualifications and the prospect of good jobs and a better chance in life than their parents experienced.

This is the story of one of their successes.

In Silvarpatti village, Seeniyammal, a hardworking woman, is employed as a cleaning staff member at a government girls’ school. She is a widow and mother of two daughters and one son. Her husband passed away several years ago, leaving her as the sole breadwinner of the family.

Her two elder children studied only up to Class 9 (age 14) before discontinuing their education. Her youngest daughter, Renu (name changed), was enrolled in Class 9 as well. However, after attending school for only two weeks, Renu began to skip classes frequently — attending once in a while, then stopping altogether. For ten days, she did not go to school even once.

A local volunteer noticed this and informed the Arogya Agam field staff. The next day, the field staff visited the village to understand the situation. When they reached Renu’s house, they found her staying at home. Her mother was also absent from work that day.

On inquiry, Seeniyammal explained that Renu’s class teacher had warned her, saying, “Your daughter is not coming to school regularly. It’s your responsibility to ensure she attends. If you fail, we’ll report it to the headmistress — and you may lose your job.”

Worried about this, Seeniyammal stopped going to work, hoping to convince her daughter to return to school. Despite her mother’s repeated requests — and even scolding — Renu refused, saying only, “I don’t like going to school.”

Seeing the seriousness of the issue, Arogya Agam staff and a volunteer visited Renu several times. They spoke gently to her about the importance of education, what opportunities she could gain through learning, and what hardships she might face if she discontinued her studies.

They also reminded her, “You’ve already lost your father, and now your mother struggles alone to raise you. Because of your absence, she’s even stopped going to work. Imagine how difficult her life would be.”

They explained the risks of staying home and encouraged Renu to think about her future. Slowly, Renu’s attitude began to change. She promised that she would return to school and continue her studies.

With the joint effort of the Arogya Agam team, her mother, and the school authorities, Renu was re-enrolled. Today, Renu attends school regularly, happily, and with enthusiasm. Her mother has also resumed her work with a peaceful heart. Renu now hopes to become a teacher in the future.