When
a child is brought to Maher it is important that the child is not
overwhelmed. A few kind words and a soothing touch is the need of
the moment. After this, a discussion is had with the person who
has brought the child to Maher and all information on the child
is gathered. Some children are referred to Maher by people or organisations
known to Maher. In other cases, social workers visit the place where
they come from, but this is later, after they are admitted. Two
files are created for them, one on their health and progress , and
the other containing basic information, their registration form,
birth and school leaving certificates, referral letter if any, and
other documents. A photograph of the child is attached to his or
her admission form.
Later, a bank account is opened in the name of the child and relatives
of children are encouraged to save money regularly in these accounts
to provide for the child’s future. For children who have no
known relative, Maher takes over this role.
The child is escorted to its home, introduced to the housemothers
and other staff, issued mattresses, clothes and toiletries and told
where to keep them. On many occasions, one of the persons bringing
the child is allowed to stay overnight just to put the child at
ease. This person generally leaves the next day or even after a
couple of days, when the child has found friends or has taken to
the Maher ambience, people and routine.
Children who come to Maher are either orphans or come from broken
homes, often with single parents or rarely with both parents but
with financial circumstances that force them to approach Maher.
In any case, it is the need of the child that is the paramount deciding
factor during its admission, not its antecedents.
The children live in Bal Sadans or Houses of around 20 children
each. To make maximum use of space, each Bal Sadan has one large
hall, which is the sleeping space, dining area, playing area and
study space. Adjoining this hall is a kitchen, toilet block and
sluice area. There is a store room and retiring room for the housemothers,
to complete the unit.
|
