On September 28th, a group of 19 youth from Mary Help of Christians Parish in Naigaon East set out to visit the Sahaara Charitable Society, an orphanage home for boys and girls aged 12 to 17. Our goal was to bring joy, engage in meaningful activities, and provide support through donations.

Building Connections with the Children

As we arrived, we were greeted with big smiles and excited waves from the children. The orphanage is home to 13 girls and 19 boys, all of whom were eager to meet us. The staff gave us a warm welcome and shared insights into the children’s lives, daily routines, and challenges.

The visit kicked off with a beautiful surprise: the children sang a worship song for us. Their talent amazed us, as they played musical instruments with great skill. The simple but powerful melodies created an atmosphere of warmth and togetherness, filling the room with the spirit of worship.

Fun, Dance, and Games

To keep the energy high, we played some upbeat music, and soon the room was filled with laughter and dancing. The children, though a little shy at first, soon joined in, showing off their unique dance styles. We danced to a mix of pop and traditional songs, creating an unforgettable experience for everyone.

We also played group games, which brought even more joy to the children. The games helped everyone bond, and the laughter that filled the room was a testament to the fun we all shared.

Sharing Snacks and Gifts

After the games, we gathered for snacks. We talked about the importance of sharing and enjoying food together. The snack boxes for the children were kindly sponsored by a generous family from the community. The children shared their stories about their favorite treats as they picked out their snacks, adding a personal touch to the moment.

One of the highlights of our visit was donating essential items like stationery, books, and sanitary pads for the girls. Our team member, Mr. Lionel Dsouza, donated a Wireless Portable Bluetooth Karaoke Party Speaker, which the kids were thrilled about. The staff thanked us, explaining how these donations would greatly benefit the children.

Closing with Prayer and Gratitude

As our time came to a close, we gathered in a circle for a final prayer. We thanked God for the opportunity to share in this special day and for the joy and laughter we experienced. The children also offered their own prayers, expressing gratitude for the visit.

This visit to Sahaara Charitable Society wasn’t just an event—it was an opportunity to build connections and make lasting memories. We respected their protocol and refrained from taking any photographs during the visit. Special thanks to Laura Fernandes and Lionel D’Souza for accompanying the youth on this visit.

Conclusion

Our visit reinforced the importance of community service, compassion, and the value of spending time with those in need. The youth from our parish not only organized a successful day of activities but also walked away with a deeper sense of gratitude and purpose. We look forward to many more such visits in the future!