Temporary Centre & Land for a Permanent Site

In May, we opened the St Adrian's Reachout Centre in a small rented house in Lighthouse Street, Muttom. Since the opening 25 children who are still living in the refugee camp, come daily to the Centre to be with Sister Selvi and her helper. When they arrive after school at 3 o'clock they have a snack, then settle down to homework followed by playtime, songs, stories and support with their worries from Sister Selvi. At 7, the cook serves a nourishing meal and they leave after prayers at 8pm. The children come to the Centre all day on Saturday! Just as well Sister Selvi was a headmistress! The parents are so very happy with the security, love and help that Sister Selvi and her helpers are giving the children, there are always more parents bringing their children begging her to take them as well. But the premises in Lighthouse Street are just too small to take any more little people. Often there are tears!

Several of the women have asked Sister Selvi if she can help them to earn some money. They now realise they will have to learn to help themselves. Traditionally Indian women are full time homemakers but the Tsunami has put such a strain on the old certainties of plentiful fish and men able to earn enough money to support their families that the women are becoming more resourceful. Sister Selvi has tailoring skills so with help from generous donors in Selling she has bought two sewing machines and sewing classes are starting in the morning before the children arrive. A simple hand sewing machine costs about £30.