Inclusive Opportunity for Children with Disability

Aasra Home for Boys in Najafgarh continued its focus on providing nutritious meals, quality education, and a safe living environment for the 43 children residing in the home. The month was marked by various activities, celebrations, and engagements aimed at the holistic development and well-being of the children.

Educational Initiatives
All 43 children at Aasra Home for Boys actively participated in formal or non-formal education programs. Out of these, 34 children attended regular school, 4 were engaged in non-formal education, and 5 were enrolled in the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS). This strong emphasis on education reflects the home’s commitment to empowering children for a brighter future.

Total Children

Formal Education

Non-Formal Education

NIOS

43

34

04

05

Monthly Highlights

Educational & Life Skills Activities:

• Storytelling session conducted by Katha NGO.
• Functional life skills sessions for 15+ children covering topics such as needs vs. wants, opening a bank account, and basics of investing.
• Group sessions on awareness topics like good and bad touch, and emotional expression through colours.
• Two volunteers engaged with the children – one conducting online English classes and another teaching Mathematics, Science, and Computer to higher-class students.
• One child in Class 10 appeared for a re-examination.
• Nine children newly enrolled in NIOS at different levels.
• NIOS Class 10 results received for enrolled children.

Admissions & Restorations:

• Two new children referred to Aasra through the Child Welfare Committee (CWC).
• One child restored to his family through the CWC.

Vocational Training & Employment:

• One child began on-the-job training at Haldiram’s.
• One child enrolled for vocational training at Harmonious Children Rehabilitation Association (HCRA), Paschim Vihar.

Staff Capacity Building:

• Workshop on effective communication conducted for staff by Mental Health Professionals.
• Two staff members attended a session on exploring emotions, organised by Ayurgyan Nyas.

Sports Achievements:

• Six children participated in a Karate Competition at Holy World School, winning 2 gold, 2 silver, and 2 bronze medals.
• Two children participated in the CBSE Taekwondo Championship.

Events & Celebrations:

• Birthday celebrations for children.
• Special lunch served to all residents.

Visits & Meetings:

• District Child Protection Unit (South West) visited the centre for the Management Committee meeting.

Child Follow-ups & Health Care:

• Follow-up conducted for one child at Children First.
• One child admitted to the hospital due to frequent seizures.
• Follow-up completed for two children working at Medanta Hospital.

Recreational & Cultural Activities:

• Three children with special needs attended a movie screening of Sitaare Zameen Par as part of a school initiative.
• Four children participated in games organised at DMRC Udaan Home.
• Two children auditioned for the annual play.

Links:

• Newsletter Link

When 10-year-old Vijay arrived at Aasra Home for Boys in August 2024, he was a quiet, withdrawn
child who had lost his way—both physically and emotionally. He barely spoke, and his silence was
accompanied by frequent seizures. The little he shared hinted at a fragmented memory of his family, and any attempt to talk about them would trigger intense episodes, making it challenging to build a connection with him.The team at Aasra immediately took steps to ensure Vijay received the medical care he needed.

He was referred to a neurologist and diagnosed with epilepsy. Regular medication was prescribed, and he was also enrolled in counseling sessions. However, as his seizures continued, another consultation was done with Children First, where it was discovered that Vijay was experiencing dissociative seizures, often triggered by emotional distress.With this insight, the therapeutic team focused on creating a safe and non-verbal environment for Vijay. The goal was to give him the time and space he needed to feel secure. Gradually, the transformation began.
Over time, Vijay started engaging with his peers. He began to express himself, initially in small
ways—nodding, gesturing, smiling—and then slowly through words. He learned to defend himself if
teased, and even began initiating conversations. He opened up more during celebrations, where his
playful side emerged—he would dance joyfully, fully immersed in the moment. His relationship with
peers also grew stronger, and he even began encouraging others to express themselves. The most
beautiful part of Vijay’s journey came when the Aasra team successfully traced his family. The news
brought tears of joy to his eyes. He was reunited with his mother, and his happiness was beyond words.

Aasra Home has not only provided a nurturing environment but has also actively engaged in educational,cultural, and community-oriented activities, ensuring the holistic development of the children under its care. The collaborative efforts with government agencies, volunteers, and international entities further contribute to the success of Aasra Homes mission.
Your ongoing support continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of these children.Their
access to education, healthcare, and various extracurricular activities is not only enriching their present
but also shaping a brighter future. We deeply appreciate your commitment to this noble cause and the
positive outcomes that we are achieving together.
If you have any questions or require more detailed information, please do not hesitate to reach out. We
are immensely grateful for your generosity and look forward to updating you on the progress at the Aasra Home for Boys in the coming months.