Seton House, a home for children from Odisha's tribal communities

India, the South Asian country of a thousand faces, combines ancestral traditions with modern dynamism. Among its 28 states, Odisha, located on the east coast, stands out for its cultural richness and verdant landscapes. This region, home to many tribal communities, nevertheless faces persistent socio-economic challenges, particularly in terms of access to education and basic infrastructure.

In the Balasore district of rural Odisha, inequalities are palpable. Here, poor families and children from isolated tribes struggle daily to gain access to better living conditions and sustainable schooling.

It was against this backdrop that, in 1975, the Daughters of Charity established St. Seton House in Hatigarh, a home dedicated to the accommodation and education of children living too far from towns and schools.

A renovation project to ensure safe accommodation for residents

This home symbolizes hope for generations of young girls from poor tribal communities who wish to study.

Unfortunately, after more than forty years in existence, the infrastructure is showing critical signs of disrepair: a cracked roof, water infiltration and damp walls, endangering the safety and health of the 60 residents.

"The building is old and in urgent need of repair. During the rainy season, water continues to seep through the structure and we are increasingly concerned that the building will eventually collapse" Sr Mary 

Without urgent intervention, this place could close its doors, depriving the children of a haven in which to study, grow and dream.

The proposed solution is both technical and long-lasting:

- renovation of the roof with reinforced concrete (2.5 cm) and granite aggregates, guaranteeing watertightness for 15 years.
- refurbishment of the rooms and study areas to create a healthy environment conducive to learning.

Sr Mary herself will be in charge of the management and rigorous monitoring of the quality and budget of the work.

La solution proposée est technique et pérenne :

- rénovation du toit avec béton renforcé (2,5 cm) et granulats de granit, garantissant une étanchéité pour 15 ans.
- réhabilitation des espaces (chambres et salles d’étude) pour un environnement sain et propice à l’apprentissage.

Sr Mary assurera elle-même la direction et le suivi rigoureux de la qualité et du budget des travaux.

Thanks to your support :

- the building will be completely renovated and made safe, with a solid roof and walls.
- better hygiene will be ensured thanks to improved sanitary facilities and ventilation.
- children will be able to learn and develop in a calm, study-friendly environment.

The project's beneficiaries are
- the children of St. Seton house: mainly girls from tribal communities and low-income families
- Sisters and supervisors: with a building in good condition, they will be able to provide quality educational and health care services.
- the local community: by providing stable, secure accommodation, the home will help families to ensure their children's education without logistical or financial constraints.
The project will also contribute to the overall development of the region by promoting education and social integration.

"With this project, we will be able to protect the future of these children who, thanks to this home, escape precariousness and build their autonomy.
Every stone strengthened, every wall repainted, is a promise of dignity and equal opportunity.
Thank you once again for standing by us." Sr Mary

With Them, Thanks to You!