Members of the Coventry North Rotary CLub were welcomed by Sister Selvi and the children to witness the inauguration of the new computer and sewing centres and the new vehicle.
All this was the gift of the people of Coventry who donated to the Rotary Club after the tsunami.
St. Adrian’s Reachout Centre, Muttom, Tamil Nadu, India
28th October to 5th November 2007
It was 11.30pm when we arrived at St. Adrian’s and had our first impressions. Most of the children were on the veranda waiting to greet us except two who just couldn’t keep awake! Their welcome was so loving and sincere and we felt immediately at home.
Next morning, and every morning, it was a delight to awake to the sound of the children singing, then watch them enjoy a good breakfast and depart very enthusiastically off to school. Never once did we detect a frown or a hint of unhappiness.
The facilities at St. Adrian’s are designed in a purpose built and stylish premises to provide the children with an excellent start in life. The dedication of Sister Selvi and her loyal staff provide the obvious inspiration for the children to take advantage of the best possible opportunities provided.
The beautiful grounds and well stocked garden, lovingly cared for by Tata, provide an almost self sufficient environment for the Centre, and are both playground and tranquil escape.
We were fortunate to observe Michael and his building team toiling from dawn until dusk each day to improve the layout of the site, and soon to add a second floor to the building, which will further enhance the usefulness and importance to the local community of St. Adrian’s.
We were fortunate to be visiting soon after the equipment we had funded: a nine seater vehicle, five computers and five sewing machines, were being actively utilised to great advantage. The funds came from from our Rotary Club of Coventry North, Rotary District 1060, The Rotary Club of Nagercoil South, and a Matching Grant from The Rotary Foundation. In addition the Inner Wheel Club of Coventry North funded clothing for the children, as well as curtains and mosquito nets for the Centre.
It was a truly wonderful and inspiring visit to an exceptional and worthwhile project, well worth the continued future support of the major charity, the Bede Griffiths Trust and all its donors, including Rotary and Inner Wheel.
We look forward with excitement to the day we can return to St. Adrians to see Sister Selvi and the children, as they undoubtedly progress in their education, lifestyle, and spiritual growth.
Rotarian Past District Governor David Robinson, Rotary Club of Coventry North
President Bernice Robinson, Inner Wheel Club of Coventry North
Rotarian Past President Ashwin Kanabar, Rotary Club of Coventry North
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