Hello there from India from Rochelle Niehues! On our last full day in Viskahapatnam we traveled with teachers from Lebenshilfe to a rural area to tour another school for children with disabilities. The road trip was quite the adventure and we can all officially say "we have gotten lost in India." We stopped a few times to ask directions but it was hard to understand what was happending as most all were talking in Telegu, the local language. We finally arrived on the school grounds after following a couple of guys on a motorcycle.
Once we got to the school we were welcomed by the staff and Sister Beatrice, and all of the group were given flowers. The school serves children up to the 9th class basic skills and provides other therapies. One hundred and forty children live at the school full time and sixty come just for the school day. The school serves children from village and tribal areas and has unique challenges due to the population. Emmanuel means "God with us" and the school was founded by a Christian organization originating from Germany. The school is on approximately 11 acres and being in a rural area it was very quiet. The view out there is hills and palm trees which is very different from the city. The school has a large garden area where they grow many of their own vegetables.
While on our visit we were providing with an amazing Indian meal, with rice, of course! After lunch we went on to the hospital and nursing school. The hospital is for women and children affected by HIV/AIDS. They have outreach workers that go to the tribal areas, do testing, and work to prevent parent to child transmission. So far, 495 babies have been delivered that are not HIV positive. They are making great strides in this area, along with prevention work including education and assistance from a social worker and counselor. Visiting these facilities and hearing about their successful work was very encouraging.
No comments:
Post a Comment