Our Lady’s Home, for the past 51 years, has cared for the orphaned, poor and destitute boys of all castes and creeds. What began in a shaky abandoned wooden structure is now a two storeyed building, thrice the size of the former Home. The Home has so far ‘fathered’ 1804 boys, and is the ‘grandfather’ to a few more, as many of those who have passed out are now married. Those naughty, untidy little boys are today by and large independent and responsible young men, holding good posts in well known companies, and government offices.
Fr. Elias took us around the building so that we could see for ourselves the conditions they live and work in at the Home. They have a total of 150 orphans who are educated, fed, clothed and housed till they are able to manage on their own. They are encouraged to develop the best human values, and good character along with their studies and sports. They also have a beautiful little chapel in which the Catholic boys meet daily to attend Mass.
The older boys are encouraged to mentor and guide the younger ones. An interesting new development is the lush terrace garden where the boys are taught various gardening skills such as hydroponics, composting, growing seedlings, etc., many of which are purchased by nurseries. The garden has fresh vegetables like tomatoes, lady’s finger, brinjal, herbs like tulsi and ajwain, fruits like guava and banana, and the boys receive instructions on how to grow them, and care for them. This is a boon to those who would like to pursue agricultural interests.
We visited their dormitories, the classrooms, the kitchen, the dining rooms, the laundry, and the chapel. As the structure is now over 56 years old, it is in dire need of repairs. Several areas of the building and playground have been cordoned off due to the crumbling masonry. The Archdiocese depends on the generosity of all those who can donate, no matter how small the sum, to the repair and reconstruction fund, to ensure the safety of the children, and the continuation of this wonderful Home.
In this Year of Mercy, while we give thanks for all that we have been blessed with, let us reach out with generous hearts to fulfill the Corporal Acts of Mercy…feed the hungry, shelter the homeless, care for the orphaned. The Home has a webpage, which you can check out for further information, if you wish to donate in person – www.ourladyshome.com.
