Support orphaned children at our Sunshine Homes

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Love and Greetings from Sunshine Homes!

• Name: Sagar (Name Changed)

Age: 13 Years

Background

Sagar is an intelligent and smart boy who joined Udayan Care in 2018 after previously being placed at Matri Shaya. Despite his intellectual potential, he struggled emotionally, often overreacting to situations and becoming easily upset. He would frequently cry when scolded, making it difficult for him to adapt to new environments and social settings.

Implementation of Udayan Ghar Team

Recognizing his emotional challenges, the Udayan Ghar team, under the leadership of a counselor, implemented a tailored intervention plan. The focus was on providing him with emotional support and guidance to help him manage his reactions and adjust to his new home environment. Through consistent counseling and encouragement, he gradually became more comfortable at Udayan Care. He began to actively participate in school and home activities, reflecting his improved emotional resilience and adaptability. Additionally, with the support of the Udayan Ghar team, he was enrolled in school, where he began to excel academically.

Overall Development

Sagar’s academic journey has been marked by significant progress. Upon his arrival at Udayan Care, he was admitted to RS Public School in the 4th grade, where he achieved an impressive 92%. Recognizing his potential, he was later transferred to Ahlcon Public School, where he continued to excel. In 2022, he scored 76%, and in the following year, he maintained a strong performance with a score of 72%. These achievements highlight Sagar’s consistent dedication to his studies.

In addition to his academic success, Sagar has also made strides in his overall development. He participated in various activities, such as World Environment Day planting, Life Skills sessions, and workshops, all of which contributed to his personal growth. He also regularly attended yoga sessions, which helped him maintain his physical and mental well-being. He has shown a strong commitment to following health guidelines and maintaining his personal grooming, health, and hygiene, further reflecting his holistic development.

Summary

His journey at Udayan Care is a testament to the power of a supportive environment in transforming a child’s life. From an emotionally sensitive boy who struggled to cope with challenges, he has grown into a confident and high-achieving student. The Udayan Ghar team’s tailored intervention and ongoing support have played a crucial role in his development, enabling him to excel academically and participate actively in various activities. His success story is an inspiring example of how guidance, care, and the right environment can help a child overcome obstacles and reach their full potential.

• Name: Yashi (Name Changed)

Age: 15 Years

Background:

Yashi is an energetic kid with an inquisitive mind. Having completed her 12th grade with a very good score, she is now preparing for college. Although she sometimes faces anxiety, she actively works to manage it. Overall, Y is excited to embark on this new phase of her life.

Interventions:

Yashi completed her 12th grade with an impressive score of 96.8% from Dalhousie Public School. She has also received an offer from the prestigious Ashoka University, marking a significant achievement in her academic journey. Y was fit and healthy, actively participating in morning yoga sessions as well as Zumba and meditation sessions in the evening.

Impact of Udayan Ghar Team:

The support and encouragement from the Udayan Ghar team have greatly contributed to Y success. The structured wellness programs, including yoga, Zumba, and meditation, have helped her maintain her physical health and manage her anxiety. The team's guidance and nurturing environment have provided her with the confidence and resilience needed to achieve her academic goals and prepare for the future.

Summary:

Overall, Y was happy and enjoyed her vacations after her 12th exams. She is very excited to begin her new journey at Ashoka University. With her determination and the continuous support of the Udayan Ghar team, she is well-prepared to excel in her college life and future endeavors.

• Name: Shweta (Name Changed)

Age: 17 Years

Background:

Shweta is a diligent student currently in Class XI at Pragyan School. She enjoys reading books, watching movies, and listening to music, with a particular interest in mysterious and thriller genres. She is known for her neatness, organization, and adherence to instructions from her mentor father, counselor, home in-charge, and care staff. Despite her overthinking tendencies and occasional sleep issues during exams, Shweta remains positive and hardworking.

Interventions:

Shweta attends Pragyan School regularly, participates actively in school activities, and is preparing for her CLAT exam. She is also encouraged to maintain a balanced lifestyle, including engaging in physical activities to support her health. Recently, she underwent routine eye and dental check-ups to ensure her well-being.

Impact of Udayan Ghar Team:

The Udayan Ghar team’s support has been instrumental in Shweta’s development. Their guidance has helped her stay organized, maintain good health, and manage her academic responsibilities effectively. The team's nurturing environment has contributed to her positive outlook and active participation in various activities.

Summary:

Shweta is a positive and hardworking individual who is well-prepared for her academic and personal growth. With the continuous support of the Udayan Ghar team, she remains focused on her studies and actively participates in all aspects of her life. Her friendly and supportive nature enhances her relationships with peers, and she is set to continue excelling in her endeavours.

Workshops with Coordinator’s/ Caregivers

Session on “Child Abuse”-In the month of April, the person in charge from all the Udayan Ghar (except Jaipur and Kurukshetra) attended a session on child abuse at Head Office, conducted by Dr. Deepak Gupta. The session discussed the profound impact of child sexual abuse on a child's life, including physical health, emotional trauma, developmental disruption, and interpersonal difficulties. It also discussed the long-term effects and the risk of revictimization. Strategies for supporting children included access to medical care, establishing safety, trust, and active listening.

Session on “Mental Health”- In May, the Person In-charge and supervisor of Home 3 attended a 'Mental Health' session organized by the District Child Protection Unit at Moolchand Hospital’s Mental Health Department. The session featured multiple resource persons who emphasized the importance of self-care to enhance the quality of care provided to children.

Session on “Cancer Awareness”- In May, the Person In-charge and the supervisor of Home 3 attended a Cancer Awareness session organized by the District Child Protection Unit at Anchal Home. Alongside other welfare officers and in-charges from various CCIs, they participated in the informative session. The resource person provided comprehensive insights into cancer, its prevention, and available hospitals, among other relevant topics.

Training Session on Vendor Requisition (VR)- On June 13th, 2024, the Head Office organized a training session covering VR technology, grocery list management, and financial reporting, which aimed to deliver detailed instruction on new formats, processes, and their practical application.

Caregiver’s Session- At the Summer Camp, in June, a comprehensive training session for caregivers was conducted by Mr. Saket (Name Changed) from the Gift of Life Foundation, with the primary objective of raising awareness about disaster management. This session aimed to equip all the caregivers with the essential knowledge and skills needed to effectively handle emergencies and ensure the safety and well-being of those in their care. Additionally, to ensure the overall health and fitness of the team, a thorough blood test was administered to all members.

Workshops with Children

Weekly Wednesday Workshops

Weekly Wednesday workshops were conducted by Program Coordinator, Education across all the Udayan Ghar on crucial topics such as developing and maintaining relationships. These sessions focused on the importance of building healthy and positive connections with others. The workshops included interactive activities, discussions, and role-playing exercises to help children understand the dynamics of relationships, effective communication, and conflict resolution. Emphasis was placed on empathy, trust, and mutual respect, providing the children with valuable skills to nurture and sustain meaningful relationships in their personal and social lives.  

Session on “Self-Care”

In the month of April, the counselor of the Lajpat Nagar Home 1 for Girls, conducted the session on Self-Care. The main objectives of the session were to understand the concept of self-care, understanding its significance in maintaining well-being and identify personal needs and preferences for self-care activities. Most of the children were highly interested in the activity and hence actively participated.

Session on “Family Tree”

The counselor of Mehrauli Home 3 for Girls, conducted a life skill workshop for children aged 11-17 in the month of April, on recognizing and valuing family contributions through a "My Family Tree" activity. The session included a mindfulness exercise, a ball-passing game where children shared family stories, and a drawing activity where they illustrated their family members. The activity aimed to enhance self-awareness and strengthen family bonds. While most children actively participated and enjoyed the session, some were hesitant to speak or share. The session effectively emphasized the importance of family roles and connections.

Session on “Managing Emotions Through Free Hand Drawing”

In April 2024, a group life skills workshop focusing on managing emotions through freehand drawing and coloring was conducted at Udayan Ghar for Girls Home 17, conducted by the counselor. The session aimed to help the children understand and express their emotions and find inner peace through art. The children were highly engaged and excited, using the activity to depict scenes of happiness and joy. This exercise helped them develop self-awareness, self-esteem, and creativity by channeling their emotions into their artwork, resulting in a positive and joyful experience for all participants.

Session on “Cancer Awareness Workshop”

Dr. Prabha (Name Changed) and Mr. Vishnu Goswami (Name Changed) from Children Unbound Foundation conducted an awareness program on cancer prevention, health, and hygiene among children in the month of May in Lajpat Nagar Home 1 for Girls. The interactive session was fruitful, and Dr. Sunita distributed ice creams and chocolates to the children.

Session on “Financial Literacy”

A Life Skill Workshop on financial literacy was conducted in the month of May at Jagshanti Udayan Ghar for Girls Home 4, focusing on critical thinking and money management for children aged 13-17. The session was conducted by the counselor and aimed to develop awareness about money, emphasize the importance of financial literacy, and guide children in setting financial goals and making investment decisions. The session included an interactive activity where children imagined spending 50,500, followed by a discussion on budgeting, savings, and investment. The goal-directed approach helped children understand financial planning and prioritization. Overall, the session was well-received, with positive feedback from participants like Madhu, who appreciated the practical insights. The session proceeded smoothly without major challenges.

Session on “Vision Board Making”

In the month of June, a vision board activity was conducted for children of Mayur Vihar Boys Home 8, led by the counselor. The session aimed to help children reflect on their interests, goals, and aspirations through creative expression. After a discussion on the concept of "vision," children created collages using newspaper clippings to represent their personal goals, interests, and feelings. The activity highlighted differences between older and younger children, with older kids focusing on specific goals and younger ones exploring new interests. Overall, the session was successful in fostering self-awareness and creativity, and the children enjoyed sharing their vision boards with each other.

MAJOR ACTIVITIES

Regular Chess Classes- The children from Mayur Vihar Home 2and Home 8 actively participated in chess classes, which significantly enhanced their thinking skills. Through engaging in the game, they developed strategic thinking, problem-solving abilities, and improved decision-making skills. Chess served as a stimulating activity that fostered logical reasoning, offering a fun and effective means for children to strengthen their cognitive capacities.

IT Literacy Classes- Children in the age group of 9-14 years at Mehrauli Home 3 and Home 12 were participating in IT Literacy weekly classes held every Saturday. These sessions aim to enhance their digital skills and knowledge, preparing them for a technologically advanced future.

Regular Coding classes- Coding classes have been scheduled for the Boys at Home 2 and Home 8 to equip them with contemporary technological knowledge. These classes aim to provide them with essential skills in programming, fostering their understanding of modern technology and preparing them for future opportunities in the tech industry. Through interactive lessons and hands-on projects, the boys will gain practical experience in coding, problem-solving, and critical thinking, enhancing their digital literacy and boosting their confidence in using technology.

Birthday Celebrations- Birthdays of the children at Udayan Care Homes are celebrated with boundless enthusiasm and heartfelt love, creating moments of pure joy and happiness. The celebrations are marked by a cheerful cake-cutting ceremony, lively games, and activities that bring laughter and excitement. Mentor parents and caregivers pour their hearts into making each child feel incredibly special, surrounding them with warmth and affection. These occasions foster a deep sense of belonging and community, leaving the children with cherished memories that sparkle with love and joy, making their birthdays unforgettable.

Eid Celebration- On 10^th Apr’24, the children from all the Homes celebrated the festival. The event featured various activities designed to be fun, educational, and inclusive, allowing children of all backgrounds to participate and learn about the festival. The event kicked off with a storytelling session where an elder from the community shared the story of Eid ul-Fitr, explaining why and how it is celebrated. The children listen attentively and asked questions, showing keen interest in the cultural traditions.

Baisakhi Celebration-On 13^th April, the harvest festival of Baisakhi was celebrated across all the Homes with great zeal and enthusiasm, helping children connect culturally. Our little ones danced to foot-tapping music and looked beautiful in their vibrant Punjabi attire. The best-dressed were crowned. The celebration brought our children closer to the dazzling beauty of Punjabi culture. Additionally, they had the opportunity to watch a short movie on Baisakhi, enhancing their understanding of the festival's significance.

Ambedkar Jayanti Celebration-The children celebrated Ambedkar Jayanti on 14^th April, 2024 across all the Homes by immersing themselves in learning about Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and his significant contributions. They engaged in educational activities that explored his impact on social justice and equality. To honour his legacy, the children expressed their understanding and appreciation through drawings, creatively depicting his life and achievements. This celebration not only deepened their knowledge of a pivotal historical figure but also allowed them to showcase their reflections and interpretations of his important work through art.

Earth Day- On 22^nd April’24, Earth Day was celebrated across all the Udayan Ghars focusing on environmental protection and raising awareness about ecological issues. The event was designed to be both informative and engaging. It featured a variety of activities aimed at promoting sustainable practices and increasing environmental awareness among participants of all ages. The diverse activities provided the children with a deeper understanding of environmental issues and practical ways they can contribute in making a positive impact.

A Haldi and Mehendi function was organized at Home 12 Mehrauli Home for Girls on 29^th April for an alumni of the home. The children came together to beautifully decorate the house and prepared heartfelt dance performances for the occasion. Everyone enjoyed getting mehndi applied and indulged in a delicious meal. The celebration was filled with joy and laughter, creating cherished memories and a sense of family for everyone involved.

Donor Home Visit- In May, one of our generous donor, visited the Lajpat Nagar Home 1 for Girls and organized a special lunch for all the children. He interacted with the children and participated in various activities, bringing joy and excitement to the day. The children expressed their gratitude and happiness by thanking him warmly, cherishing the wonderful experience of his visit.

Awareness camp regarding personal hygiene during menstruation:On 28^th May, L.N.J.P Hospital organized an informative awareness camp focused on personal hygiene during menstruation for the girls of Jaipur Home 10. The camp aimed to educate participants about the importance of maintaining proper hygiene practices to ensure health and well-being during this natural phase of life. Healthcare professionals provided valuable insights on topics such as menstrual health, the use of sanitary products, and the significance of regular check-ups. Interactive sessions encouraged open discussions, allowing attendees to ask questions and share their experiences. This initiative not only empowered individuals with knowledge but also aimed to reduce stigma surrounding menstruation, fostering a supportive environment where participants felt comfortable discussing their needs and concerns.

Global Parent’s Day Celebration- On June 1, 2024, Jagshanti Udayan Ghar for Girls, celebrated Global Parents Day with activities emphasizing the vital role of parents. The event featured a collaborative poster-making session where students created a vibrant poster that symbolized their appreciation for mentor parents, fostering teamwork and creativity. This event successfully educated and inspired students, strengthening their bond with their mentors and enhancing their appreciation for the role of parents.

 Summer Camp- In the month of June, Udayan Care children participated in a summer camp in Greater Noida Jagshanti Home for Girls, showcasing various activities based on their interests and age groups. The camp included modeling sessions, dance competitions, poster and card-making contests, and STEM classes. A magic show and jam sessions added to the excitement. The camp was divided into five groups to ensure everyone could fully enjoy and benefit from the experience. The camp not only provided fun and memorable moments but also opportunities for personal growth and skill development!

Visit to the National Craft Museum- In June, children visited the National Craft Museum, India Gate, and National War Memorial. They explored various craft traditions, including Folk and Tribal Gallery, Cultic objects, Courtly Craft Gallery, Textile Gallery, Village Complex, and Chariot. They enjoyed a delicious lunch at India Gate. It was a pleasant outing for both children and staff.

 Child Labour Prohibition Day-On June 12, Lajpat Nagar Home 1 for Girls and Noida Boys Home 6 observed Child Labour Prohibition Day with a series of educational and interactive activities. The students created a vibrant poster highlighting the key aspects of child labour, which helped them grasp the gravity of the issue. An informative session followed, covering the definition of child labour, its impacts on children’s well-being, and the legal frameworks designed to combat it, including the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC). The session encouraged students to spread awareness about the importance of education and the dangers of child labour. This observance was a pivotal step in educating and empowering the children about their rights and reinforcing the commitment to eradicating child labour.

Father’s Day Celebration- On June 16th, children of Home 5 Gurgaon Boys, celebrated Father's Day, honoring the mentor fathers who play a crucial role in the lives of the children. The day was filled with heartfelt expressions of gratitude, as the children organized special activities to show their appreciation. There were touching speeches,handmade cards, and small tokens of love presented to the mentor fathers, who have been pillars of support and guidance. The celebration was a beautiful tribute, highlighting the deep bonds and the sense of family that these mentor fathers have cultivated within the homes. The event was not only a celebration of Father's Day but also a recognition of the profound impact these mentors have on shaping the lives of the children.

International Yoga Day Celebration (21^st June)- On the occasion of International Yoga Day, the children eagerly showcased their yoga skills with remarkable efficiency. The day commenced with a warm-up session to prepare their bodies, followed by the practice of various yoga asanas, including Surya Namaskar, Balasana, and Bhujangasana. Each pose not only demonstrated their physical abilities but also highlighted their growing understanding of mindfulness and balance. The children’s enthusiasm and dedication were evident, making the celebration both inspiring and joyful.

Movie Outing-On 22^nd June, all the children of Mehrauli Home for Girls went for a movie outing and lunch, generously provided by a donor. They thoroughly enjoyed watching the film "Mr. and Mrs. Mahi, which captivated their attention and brought plenty of laughter and excitement. After the movie, they relished a delicious lunch, engaging in lively discussions about their favorite scenes and characters from the film. This outing not only offered them entertainment but also a memorable day out, filled with joy and camaraderie, thanks to the donor's thoughtful contribution.

24^th June, Dr. Kiran Modi’s (Bua) Birthday- On the special occasion of our founder Kiran Modi's birthday, all the children prepared a heartfelt birthday card for her. They penned their thankfulness for her hard work and expressed how she is truly an inspiration to them.
The children shared their gratitude through their art skills, dance performances, and video messages. This celebration was a beautiful testament to the profound impact Kiran Modi has had on their lives, as they showcased their admiration and appreciation in creative and meaningful ways.

Visit to the Doll Museum: The Udayan Care head office organized a visit to the Doll Museum for the Girls of  Ghaziabad Home 11 on 26^th June. The children were fascinated by the diverse collection of dolls from different eras and countries, each telling a unique story. This educational and engaging trip allowed the children to learn about history and global diversity in a fun and engaging way.

 Visit to the National Craft Museum- On June 28, the children of Lajpat Nagar Home 1 for Girls visited the National Craft Museum, India Gate, and National War Memorial. They explored various craft traditions, including Folk and Tribal Gallery, Cultic objects, Courtly Craft Gallery, Textile Gallery, Village Complex, and Chariot. They enjoyed a delicious lunch at India Gate. It was a pleasant outing for both children and staff.

 Seed Planting Program (30^th June): Every year in the month of June, a seed planting program is conducted by ECO Rescuers Foundation. This time, the children from Jaipur Home 10 for Girls participated in the seed planting program along with the members of ECO Rescuers Foundation. All the girls worked enthusiastically and enjoyed thoroughly. The activities concluded with the girls enjoying a hearty breakfast.

Links:

• Program Description
• Hear our Alumni speak about their experience
• A short film on Sunshine Homes