Leprosy seems a disease of the past, but to our surprise we found out there are 54 leper colonies just in the state (Tamil Nadu) that Chennai is in alone.
The Little Lights home sits on the outskirts of Chennai and is home to 34 kids whose family members live in leper colonies. The vision of the Little Lights staff is to take in children who are often neglected or at high risk and give them a loving home, a good education, and hope for the future. Their dream is by 2020 to see these kids become doctors, lawyers, and skilled professionals. Then they can break the cycle of generations of lepers in their families. We heard the story of Joe, who was the inspiration for the start of Little Lights. When he was 2 years old he was found tied to a mango tree by the staff. Each day his parents would go out to beg and leave Joe alone to fend for himself tied to the tree. Today Joe is a thriving 5 year old, going to school, and safe at Little Lights (see picture of the boy in the orange shirt).
Our team did some art projects with the kids, made bead necklaces and did face painting. Just seeing their happy faces made the 3 hour drive worthwhile!
Check back tomorrow for Day 3 in Chennai…preschool in the slum & Rescue & Restore Childrens’ home!
One Response
Hello, its nice to see you have a wonderful time in India.
I whish you all the best, you are all in my praiers, many hugs and kisses from Anne Kari.