Round up of March
This March was a month of uncertain weather. We began with chilly nights and ended up getting soaked in out of season rains. In between we had very hot days, cloudy days and days that could confuse the weatherman completely. Children in our care too have had days that were great and days that were not so great. Most of the days were spent studying and preparing for the final examinations. This also signals the end of the Academic year and the beginning of summer vacation. There was serious study and light hearted moments when they invited each other over during vacation.
The Shelters have seen a rise in number of children attending. This is due to the tremendous work the fieldworkers have put in. Johnny coordinates the Shelters now and his input and direction have also helped tremendously. Parents have attended meetings held at Shelters and understood the importance of the various issues discussed. Visitors have been plenty at all Units including the school. The distribution of Samaritan gifts was an added incentive for children to attend. The children at Shelters visited the beaches, parks and other areas of interest.
The Homes were quieter compared to the Shelters basically as the exams were due and children were busy studying. There were a couple of parties given by well wishers and sponsors. One sponsor even brought musicians to entertain our children. Donations were given at different Homes and of things that were really required. Mattresses, pillows, clothes, provision, sweets and eatables etc were all given to children by different people. Well wishers even donated towards a park to be developed at Shekinah House playground. We thank every sponsor, donor and well wisher who has blessed our children with time, money and presence.
Our Co-Founder, Ms Anita Edgar, had to fly back to UK because of the sad demise of her loving father. Our condolences and sympathies go with her. She has since arrived back and continues tirelessly her efforts at fundraising. Colonel George Thomas (Retd) has been appointed the Chief Operations Officer at El Shaddai. He has familiarized himself with the work and staff. He went visiting every Unit of the Trust. We welcome him on board and hope he has a long tenure with El Shaddai Charitable Trust.
Children will go on summer vacation this coming month. On 5th is the parents staff meeting and later that day most of the children who have parents or guardians will go and a few weeks with them. The ones answering board exams will remain till the completion of the same. Accelerated Christian Education (A.C.E.) was launched in Goa, Mumbai and Hyderabad this month. The training workshop is being conducted at Shanti Niketan School from 7th to 11th April. Many of the Home staff have applied for summer leave. They too will spend a few weeks with their families and loved ones. Another academic year draws to a close and we thank Almighty God for the protection and Grace He has given us. We pray we may be led to touch many more children in the coming year.