We are thrilled to feature a guest post from Santosh, our dedicated partner representing Love One Another Ministries (LOAM) in India. Santosh shares the incredible work being done at the LOAM School in Chelligada, Odisha, where vulnerable children are finding hope, dignity, and opportunity through education and care.
LOAM School’s Impact on Orphans and Needy Children in Odisha
In the heart of the quaint village of Chelligada, nestled in the vibrant state of Odisha, stands the LOAM School, a beacon of hope and transformation for the region’s most vulnerable children. The LOAM School stands as a testament to the power of compassion and education, reaching out to orphans and needy children who, without this lifeline, would face a bleak future devoid of hope, dignity, and opportunity. The compelling stories of these children, now thriving under the care and guidance of LOAM, illustrate the profound impact of the school’s mission – a mission rooted in love and education.
The LOAM School’s mission is to provide quality education, nurturing care, and a supportive environment to orphans and needy children in Odisha. Our vision is to create a future where every child, regardless of their socio-economic background, has the opportunity to receive a quality education and grow into a responsible, confident, and compassionate individual. We aim to break the cycle of poverty and hopelessness by empowering children through education, instilling values, and fostering a sense of community.
Personal Stories of Transformation
A Journey from a Tribal Village to Excellence at LOAM School
Jihoba was born in a poor tribal village and didn’t have the chance to go to school. His parents, struggling with poverty, heard about the LOAM School, which was dedicated to educating underprivileged children. LOAM, symbolizing fertile soil, believed in nurturing young minds like seeds to help them grow and thrive. When Jihoba joined LOAM, his potential quickly emerged. He excelled in mathematics and science, and his creativity shone in art and music. The caring teachers at LOAM encouraged his growth, turning him into a confident leader among his peers. LOAM provided Jihoba with more than an education; it broadened his horizons and instilled values of empathy and critical thinking. Jihoba’s transformation from a life of hardship to becoming an outstanding student is a testimony to the power of nurturing love and education. Today, he stands as an inspiration, proving that with the right opportunities, anyone can achieve greatness.
Once a child labourer, now a dreamer and achiever
Rani grew up in a poor village, where she had to search for food and work as a child labourer. Her life changed when she went to LOAM School. At LOAM, she did well in her studies and personally. The school’s caring environment and teachers helped her find her strengths and believe in the impact of a good education on children like her. Inspired by her own experience, Rani now wants to be a teacher and give back to her community.
These success stories are not just about academic achievements; they reflect profound personal growth and the reclaiming of lost childhoods, filled with dreams and aspirations.
Challenges and Triumphs
The journey has not been without its challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic posed significant hurdles, particularly in remote areas without internet access. LOAM School faced the daunting task of continuing education amidst lockdowns and travel restrictions. However, our dedicated staff rose to the occasion, visiting students’ homes and teaching lessons despite the risks and difficulties. This unwavering commitment ensured that learning never stopped, even in the face of a global crisis.
Another significant challenge is securing sponsorships for each child. Many of our students come from impoverished backgrounds, and without external support, their education would be unattainable. Because of high poverty in our land, parents are not able to send their children to school. We want LOAM School to be for orphans, needy, and less privileged children who do not have access to school. LOAM envisions serving the people of our communities with high-quality education delivered through loving and caring teachers and staff.
Yet, by God’s grace, we have made remarkable strides. We started the school last year with a dedicated staff, and miraculously, we were able to build two dormitories for boys and girls separately on campus. This development allows students to live and study in a nurturing Christian environment, surrounded by love and care. However, our journey has not been without triumphs. The construction of the dormitories was a monumental achievement, made possible through the generous support of donors and the relentless efforts of our community. This accomplishment fuels our hope and determination to overcome our current challenges. One of the most pressing issues is the lack of proper sanitation facilities. Despite having successfully built the boys’ and girls’ dormitories, we have not been able to construct adequate bathrooms due to insufficient funding. This gap in our infrastructure poses a health risk and hampers the daily lives of our children.
Impact and Future Goals
So far, the LOAM School has positively impacted the lives of around 120 students. This impact goes beyond the children to their families and the wider community. Parents who used to see their children as workers now understand how important education is for securing a better future. This change in perspective is crucial for breaking the cycle of child labour and poverty.
Our future goals are ambitious but possible. We want to provide scholarships for all children in need to ensure they get the education they deserve. We also urgently need funds to build basic Indian-style bathrooms, which are estimated to cost $15,000. These facilities are important for improving and maintaining hygiene and health and will improve the overall quality of life for our children on campus.
Join Us in Making a Difference
We invite you to join us in this transformative journey. Your support can make a significant difference, whether through prayers, financial contributions, or awareness. By sponsoring a child, you are not only providing education but also instilling hope, spiritual growth, and a brighter future. Together, we can continue to change lives and uplift an entire generation.
Your involvement can help us reach more children like Jihoba and Rani, offering them a chance to dream, learn, and grow in a loving, supportive environment. Please consider partnering with us to give these children the education and care they deserve.
Imagine a child who once faced a bleak future thriving in an environment filled with love, learning, and opportunities. This is the impact you can make for underprivileged children in India. Join us in transforming lives and making a lasting difference in the community. Your support can change not just individual lives but entire communities, creating a ripple effect of positive change for generations to come.
Thank you for your unwavering support and generosity.
With gratitude,
Santosh
