#HomeAwayFromHome for children abandoned during COVID-19

• The second wave of COVID-19 brought with it many unexpected challenges including that of children of COVID-19 positive parents being abandoned temporarily or permanently. These children are often very young and are incapable of independent existence. They are facing an almost insurmountable battle for survival while living through a sudden and life-changing series of events - they need our help. 
• Over the past few months we have been helping house, feed and care for 100+ children temporarily during their parents' COVID-19 treatment in partnership with Dream India Network, an organization that runs 50+ foster homes for children in and around Bengaluru. This is part of our COVID-19 efforts in which we are tending to the nutritional requirements of thousands of needy across Bangalore through outreach programs. We have donated over Rs. 60,00,000 worth of food and essentials through these programs. 
• However, these efforts have brought forth the plight of 24 differently-abled children who have been permanently abandoned and do not have any surviving relative who is able to take care of them. Because we do not currently possess the capacity to provide for their special needs, we are working to house these children in new inclusive homes that we are currently setting up across Bangalore.

We are establishing inclusive homes in Indiranagar, Bengaluru, that will house these 8 children and in TC Palya, Bengaluru within the Assisi Special School complex that will house 16 children. These homes are being set-up to mimic the model used by Dream India Network in its 50+ foster homes but with additional provisions to cater for the special needs of these children including the installation of ramps, guard rails, etc. Children who will be housed in these homes will be cared for by a mother and will be provided with food, education and extracurricular engagements.

• These children have been unfortunate victims of one of the greatest challenges we have faced in recent times. Through our collective effort, however, we will be able to issue them a new lease of life and give them a fighting chance at overcoming the significant hurdles they face and achieving their dreams.
• This is a chance for all of us to show these children who are frightened and lonely that there are people who care about them, there are people who will support their dreams and desires.