Giving St Seton House, a home for girls, a future once again

In India, in Hatigarh in the state of Odisha, the dilapidated condition of the St. Seton House building was causing deep concern: it no longer provided the necessary safety conditions to accommodate children from tribal communities. The situation had become so worrying that the community had even considered no longer being able to accommodate the children at the centre. 
The ‘A safe shelter within our walls’ project made possible what had seemed almost impossible: renovating the building and enabling the children to continue living there in a dignified and protective environment, close to their school.

A project being closely monitored

A local, qualified and experienced contractor was selected to carry out the work. Before work began, a meeting was held to clarify the objectives, quality requirements, the timetable and the various stages of the project.

Sr Mary, the home’s manager, accompanied by the sisters from the community, closely monitored every stage of the project. They regularly checked the progress of the building work and the quality of the materials used. Their constant presence ensured that the work proceeded smoothly and that the set objectives were met.

“The local community has also rallied round, providing invaluable help in the form of manpower. This commitment is a testament to the importance of this home and to everyone’s desire to contribute to its success.” Sr Mary

Much more than just a renovated building

Today, 60 children are directly benefiting from this renovation. For them, the change is tangible: they now have a safer, more comfortable and more dignified place to live.

But the impact extends far beyond the walls of the children’s home. The 60 families of the children in care also benefit indirectly from the project. Knowing that their child is being looked after in a safe and well-maintained building brings parents a new sense of peace of mind.

“For the children, this renewed sense of security also means greater stability. They are free from the worry of whether they will be able to stay at home, and they can focus more fully on their education, their personal development… and begin to dream of their future with greater confidence.” Sr Mary

One of them spoke about what this new home means to him: feeling valued, supported and protected.

A global project that is making progress

The project was completed without any major issues arising during the works. However, not everything has been fully completed yet.

“The main renovation work has been completed, but the whitewashing and some finishing touches still need to be done, due to a lack of sufficient funding. And the very dilapidated furniture in the rooms also needs to be replaced with durable furniture.” Sr Mary

But the most important thing is this: over the years, the children’s home will continue to welcome and support the new children entrusted to its care. Thank you for helping to transform a vulnerable place into a true haven for the future.