For Raju (name changed) from Maharashtra, childhood changed suddenly at the age of three when his father passed away in an accident. The loss left his mother, elder brother, and grandparents struggling with grief as well as growing financial hardship. Meeting everyday needs such as schooling, healthcare, and household expenses became increasingly challenging.

At first, Raju was too young to fully understand the changes unfolding around him. But as the months passed, he slowly began experiencing the effects of disruption at home, economic strain, anxiety about the future, and eventually, separation from family.

As the family worked to regain stability, support from the local Child Welfare Committee connected the children to a Child Care Institution (CCI). Raju’s elder brother entered the institution first, and two years later, at the age of six, Raju followed. Although the CCI provided schooling and stability during a difficult period, living away from home remained emotionally challenging for Raju. He adapted to the life and school routines, but his strongest connection remained with his family. His mother’s visits and regular conversations reassured him that the separation was temporary. 

Back home, Raju’s mother steadily worked towards rebuilding the family’s future by starting a small grinding mill, while his grandfather continued running a tea stall. Over time, the family’s financial condition improved. Alongside this, the team remained in regular contact with them through counselling sessions, home visits, and follow-ups, helping prepare both the children and the family for reintegration. 

As the family became more stable, the possibility of returning home gradually became real. With careful planning and counselling by the CCI Superintendent and team, Raju was reunited with his family in June 2023, following his brother’s return in 2021. 

Today, Raju is studying in Class 12 while supporting the family business alongside his studies, and his elder brother is pursuing a B.Sc. while helping manage the family’s tea stall. Raju is also supported under the Bal Sangopan Yojana, which provides financial assistance of Rs. 2,250 to children from vulnerable families to grow up in family-based care. His journey reflects how family separation often stems not from the absence of care but from economic hardship and crisis. While institutional care provided temporary support during a vulnerable period, it was sustained family strengthening, counselling, and continued support that ultimately helped bring Raju back home.