Friendship Children’s Home began its journey in 2006, accepting 15 parentless children in Siruganur, Trichy District. This initiative was supported by AEM, a children-empowering organization from France. In 2009, the orphanage received approval from the District Collector to operate officially. It was registered under the Juvenile Justice Act (JJ Act) in 2011 and is now guided by the District Social Welfare Office and the District Child Protection Unit.
As of July 2024, the home cares for approximately 39 children who attend government schools from Grade 1 to 12, along with 9 grown-ups pursuing college studies. Evening tuition classes are conducted with the help of three external teachers. The children participate in daily games, monthly sports, film shows, telescope viewing, library classes, and other personality development exercises.
Nineteen alumni are now engaged in start-up employment, receiving career guidance and necessary support for stability and sustainability in their respective jobs. Two alumni have gotten married.
Special Initiatives
With continued external support, we provide children with housing, nutrition, healthcare, and education. VOICE Trust ensures that children enrich their education through games and activities. With the help of volunteers, we celebrate special events like Deepavali and Independence Day, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to participate and celebrate in safe spaces with materials that reflect their beliefs and opinions.
VOICE Trust is also committed to helping children learn how to plant and nurture their own plants as a way to care for the environment. We believe that educating children on environmental issues encourages them to make better choices in the future and instills a strong sense of personal responsibility for our planet.
In 2016, volunteers from France initiated an ecological agriculture garden with the children of Friendship Children’s Home. This initiative has benefited the children, allowing them to grow their own crops.
Sunday Agriculture School
In July 2020, the Sunday Agriculture School was started to create interest among rural children in continuing farming activities. This initiative supports both the children’s elders and provides possible employment opportunities. As of March 2024, 567 rural children from 14 villages have completed 10 weeks of training in agriculture. Over 60% are continuing home gardening and assisting elders during holidays. VOICE Trust hopes that at least one-third will choose agriculture as an employment option, contributing to their villages through dedicated involvement in farm fields.
Support and Scholarships
Besides AEM, many friends and institutions extend help as Friends of Children. Scholarship support is provided for college-going boys and girls from AEM and through friends and well-wishers.
