Palawi: an NGO for children who are abandoned and HIV-positive

THERE is a remarkable woman named Mangal Shah who is lovingly addressed as Mangaltai and has been on a mission for over two decades to provide abandoned HIV+ orphaned children a second chance at life. Palawi was founded in 2001 and is an NGO for children that was born out of Mangaltai’s determination to right the wrongs that society had inflicted upon these innocent souls. Despite facing numerous challenges and discrimination, Mangaltai has rescued and cared for hundreds of children, giving them not only life-saving medical care but also the love they were denied for no fault of their own. This blog examines the work of this NGO for children who are abandoned and explores the impact that your charitable donation makes to their fundraiser.

Palawi’s humble beginnings

The journey of Palawi as an NGO for children that are abandoned due to being HIV+ began in 2001 when Mangaltai stumbled upon two abandoned babies in a nearby village, left to die in a cowshed. The sight of these fragile infants, covered in dirt and visibly neglected, left an indelible mark on her heart. Upon inquiring, she discovered that these babies were discarded by their own family after being diagnosed with HIV. Without hesitation, Mangaltai brought them home, marking the inception of her two-decade-long struggle to save abandoned HIV+ children from the perils of the streets. This was how the NGO for children in need of a home and care was formed and continues to care for abandoned children today.

The struggle and challenges

Hailing from the predominantly rural area of Pandharpur in Maharashtra, Mangaltai faced relentless challenges and opposition from people in the community. The prevailing belief that these HIV+ children had no chance of survival fueled skepticism and resistance. Despite the naysayers, Mangaltai remained resolute in her commitment to run an NGO for children in need of rescue and medical care. “Every child deserves love and care. Every child deserves to have a chance at a future,” she declared, challenging the prejudices that sought to deny these children their right to a dignified life.

Overcoming discrimination

Mangaltai’s journey with Palawi, the NGO for children who are abandoned due to being HIV-positive, has not been without its share of discrimination. Driven out of schools when attempting to secure admissions for her children, she was compelled to establish a school of her own. The discrimination was so severe that the children were not allowed to set foot in any of the local schools. In the face of adversity, Mangaltai’s unwavering determination led her to create a safe haven in the form of an NGO for children where these innocent children could receive an education and experience love and acceptance, which they deserve just like all children. To support Palawi, you can donate here.

Palawi’s impact on lives 

The impact of this NGO for children on the lives of abandoned and orphaned HIV+ children is immeasurable. Mangaltai’s love and the holistic care provided at Palawi’s campus have resulted in numerous success stories, defying the bleak predictions made by skeptics. One such story is that of Pranay (name changed), rescued at the age of 5 in 2005. He was severely malnourished and had a gaping wound on his head. Doctors gave him six months to live but today he is 22 years old, financially independent and leading a safe and productive life with dignity – a testament to the transformative power of the love and care that Palawi provides.

Appeal to support children with HIV

While the love provided to these children is immeasurable, the cost of medical care, food, shelter and education is a burden too heavy for Mangaltai to bear alone. At 70 years old she passionately appeals for urgent help, emphasizing that kind-hearted donors can play a crucial role in saving the lives of her 150 adopted grandchildren. A fundraiser has been initiated on Give.do to support the noble cause of this NGO for children and encourages individuals to contribute towards securing a future for these innocent and promising young children.

Challenges and costs

Mangaltai emphasizes the challenges her children face, who have low immunity and are prone to illness due to being HIV-positive. Regular health check-ups are essential to ensure their safety and well-being but these come at a significant cost. The financial burden placed on this NGO for children is further amplified by the need to provide quality education, shelter and nutritious meals. Mangaltai’s plea for assistance underscores the urgency of collective action to provide these children with the care and opportunities they deserve. To support Palawi, you can donate here.

Giving children holistic development

Mangaltai’s commitment goes beyond providing basic necessities. The young ones under the care of this compassionate NGO for children enjoy various benefits that contribute to their holistic development. Better test performances, classroom attendance, health scores, skill training, social inclusion, income generation and more are the outcomes of the love and nurturing they receive from Palawi. This NGO for children strives to empower its beneficiaries through entrepreneurial support, workshops promoting HIV awareness, social reintegration and job placements once the children become older.

Support Palawi on Give.do

Palawi is an NGO for children who have been abandoned due to being HIV+ and stands as a symbol of hope and resilience in the face of adversity. The work of Palawi transforms the lives of abandoned HIV+ children through love, care and unwavering determination. Mangaltai’s journey is a testament to the power of compassion and the potential for positive change even in the most challenging circumstances. 

As the NGO for children in need continues its mission to provide these abandoned children with a second chance at life, the plea for support echoes the urgency of collective action to ensure a brighter future for these innocent souls. Compassionate donors like you have the opportunity to touch the lives of these innocent children and create a world where every child, regardless of their health status, can live a fulfilling and dignified life. To support Palawi, you can donate here.

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