A Day at Sneha Sagar Society: A Girls’ Orphanage in Mumbai
As I approached my destination along the winding road near Marve Beach of Mumbai, the contrast between the serene coastal views and the reality of the world I was about to enter was striking. My stop was the Sneha Sagar Society, an orphanage sheltering young girls. This visit, more than just a routine field trip, was an eye-opening journey into the heart of a mission that has been operational for over decades—nurturing hope, rebuilding lives, and creating opportunities for some of Mumbai’s most vulnerable children.
About the NGO
For over 25 years, Sneha Sagar Society has provided a safe haven for orphaned and destitute children near Marve Beach, Malad West. Home to 24 girls aged 1 to 15, the orphanage ensures they receive food, education, medical care, and, most importantly, love and support. Many have endured hardships like losing parents to HIV and tuberculosis, yet the shelter empowers them through education, emotional care, and vocational training, helping them break free from poverty. With an additional center in Panvel, Sneha Sagar remains a beacon of hope, dedicated to transforming young lives with integrity and compassion.
The Warm Welcome
As soon as I entered the gates, I was greeted by the warm, ever-smiling sisters who run the orphanage with devotion. Their presence was reassuring, yet beneath their gentle exterior, I could sense the immense responsibility they carry on their shoulders. They oversee the day-to-day needs of the children—food, clothing, education, and, most importantly, love. The children, despite the difficult circumstances they came from, appeared to thrive in this environment of care and nurturing.
As Sister Shilpa walked me indoors to show me around the orphanage, a little hand reached up to grab mine. It was Khushi, a sweet 3-year-old girl dressed in a bright sunflower dress. Her tiny fingers wrapped around mine, and she beamed up at me with a smile that was as warm as the sun itself. I was instantly taken in by her innocence and the purity of her spirit. She proudly led me around, showing me her friends, the rooms, and even a few of the drawings she’d made—each one full of joy and creativity, despite the challenges she had faced in her young life.
In Picture: Niharika (HYNGO) with Sister Shilpa and the children of Sneha Sagar Society
A Sobering Reality
As I toured the facility, I was taken aback by the state of the infrastructure. The walls, though filled with drawings and motivational quotes, bore the signs of age and wear. The building seemed to have weathered many storms, both literal and metaphorical. Despite the caretakers’ best efforts to create a safe and positive space, the physical space itself was far from ideal. The lack of sufficient resources was evident, and it was heart-wrenching to think about the challenges the children faced daily in such an environment.
In Picture: Left- The play room cum study space (only other room except the office space and the bedroom); Right- Girls getting ready to go to school
I learned that the orphanage, in the Malad centre, has plans to reconstruct the building in the coming years. This was a hopeful prospect, but it also underscored the urgent need for support, not just for the children’s well-being, but for the infrastructure that houses them.
A Story of Resilience
Many of the children at Sneha Sagar Society have faced unimaginable hardships. Some have lost parents to diseases like HIV and TB. Some come from destitute backgrounds, where survival itself is a struggle. Yet, in this orphanage, I saw a different side of their story—a story of resilience, love, and hope.
Several of the girls have already passed their SSC exams with flying colors, achieving 1st and 2nd class marks. These accomplishments are not just a testament to their hard work but also to the incredible support they receive at Sneha Sagar. The sisters ensure that each child receives not only academic guidance but also emotional support, counseling, and encouragement. The children are not just taught subjects; they are taught to dream, to believe in themselves, and to strive for better futures.
In Picture: Office space for the NGO staff
Creativity and Talent Unleashed
One of the most touching moments during my visit was seeing how the children expressed themselves through various activities. Despite the limited resources, they were offered opportunities to nurture their talents. Some were engrossed in drawing, while others practiced dance moves, their faces lighting up as they perfected each step. These creative outlets not only provided joy but also instilled confidence, helping the children realize their own potential.
The importance of health in the development of these children cannot be overstated. Regular health check-ups are conducted, and any signs of illness are promptly addressed. I could see the caretakers’ dedication in ensuring that the children receive proper medical attention whenever needed, whether it’s for something as common as a cold or more serious health concerns.
In Picture: Left- Children sketching; Right- Children enjoying their meal
A Vision for the Future
As I sat with the sisters and listened to their plans for the future, I was filled with admiration for their vision. They are not just thinking about today, but also about the future of the children in their care. Their goal is to provide these young girls with the tools they need to succeed in life. From healthcare and education to skill training, every effort is aimed at giving the children the foundation they need to build a brighter future.
Conclusion
My visit to Sneha Sagar Society left a lasting impression. The children were full of life, hope, and dreams, but the reality of their circumstances weighed heavily on my heart. The orphanage’s infrastructure needs urgent attention, and the planned reconstruction will require significant support.
Sneha Sagar Society, has been a beacon of hope for these children. The organization has made a remarkable impact, but they cannot do it alone. As I left the orphanage, I carried with me the faces of these resilient young girls and the dedication of the sisters who care for them. Their journey is one of hope, and it is a journey that deserves our support.
To learn more about how you can contribute or to get involved, reach out to your HelpYourNGO philanthropic advisors. We will guide you on how you can make a meaningful difference in the lives of these children. Every bit counts in helping them build a future where they can thrive, just like any other child in mainstream society.
Together, we can help them rewrite their stories.
–Regards
Niharika Singh
Manager, HYNGO
