Merry
After a life on the streets, Merry now loves learning and wants to be a teacher
ASRITHA Rainbow Home
Born in 2008, Merry had a traumatic early childhood. Her father committed suicide, her mother remarried but neglected Merry, who was eventually taken in by her uncle. He cared for her as best as he could, but he had to work as a day labourer, so there was nobody to look after her properly. She spent the days roaming the streets rather than going to school.
ASRITHA’s outreach worker met Merry’s uncle and explained what the Home does. Her uncle agreed it sounded a safe and happy place for Merry. When Merry joined the Home, she was given counselling and was encouraged to get involved in activities like drawing, games and dances with her peer group. Staff also focused on her education, as Merry was not able to read and write.
She began to mingle and to talk to other children her age. She has settled in and now shows an interest in education, drawing and participating in a range of activities. Merry is happy, in good health and enjoying school. She says when she is older she would like to be a teacher.
This story is real. In accordance with Indian and Scottish regulations and recommendations, names and/or photos have been changed to protect identity and to respect confidentiality.
