February Roundup
After the fabulous start we had for the year 2008 we knew that February would be no different. The activities continued and the staff and children had a lot to do. New things happened and the good old ones were continued. Many new children came into our Homes and Shelters. New staff was inducted and some who served us went their own way towards their dreams and missions. Trainings and educational tours took place and volunteers and Friends of El Shaddai came and blessed us with their time and experience.
New staff joined us in our effort to bring childhood to the children. Some of our older ones have left us to pursue their hearts and dreams. A wedding too was celebrated. Agnel our Assistant Accountant married Rainbow House former In-Charge Agneta. Almost all the staff attended the ceremony at the Emerald Lawns. Another celebration that took place in all the Homes this month was the monthly children’s birthday parties. Almost all the Homes this month were sponsored parties. The children of House of Kathleen even had a grand picnic to Anjuna. Shekinah House celebrated the birthday of the sponsor of one of the boys there. The Rainbow House and its neighbour Kathleen House had a joint party given by Jackie Barker and her mother Gwen.
Children were taken out this month on various study tours. The smaller ones enjoyed a day out at the park, while the older ones went on a study tour of two factories manufacturing items that are close to their hearts, namely, stationery and toys. The latter half of February was spent on studies as the 2nd term exams were answered. Shelter children fared very well in both curricular and extra curricular activities. Some children even won gold and silver medals in athletics. The school celebrated colour day where children came dressed in lovely bright clothes. The school also gave a heart-warming send off to Volunteers Phil & Sue Sleigh who enriched our lives for three months. A career guidance camp was also organised for the older children in our care. The staff too attended a camp by AWANA International. This was a three day training camp in an effort to start AWANA children clubs in Goa.
On the medical front a lot has been happening. Dr. Ajith Kadam has been a blessing to us. He helps our children who need surgery and also goes visiting them where they are recuperating. This month he operated on two boys and even took one of them to Pune for further tests and examinations. Two of our girls also witnessed a surgery in the operating theatre along with Anitamother. Another child of 4 was also operated in a centre on the outskirts of Goa. Our fieldworker accompanied him there. He has recovered completely. We thank all the medical personnel in all the different locations that our children visit for the excellent care given.
The coming month is one of studies. It is also a month of celebration as Easter will be celebrated. March will also see the end of the academic year and the children going on summer vacation. The annual Shanti Niketan School picnic is scheduled for March and there are plenty of other activities for children in our care. Everyday is different from the other. The children are preparing for the coming final examination and we wish them the very best.