Since 2018, when we, at Miracle Foundation India, made a strategic shift from supporting institutional care to promoting family-based care, we have stood by the belief that every child deserves the warmth of a family. Our partner, Mahesh Foundation in Belagavi, Karnataka — caring for children living with HIV — embraced this transformation, proving that every child, no matter the challenge, deserves the love and stability of a family.
One such story of transformation is that of Abhi (name changed) and his siblings. After losing their parents, Abhi and his siblings were taken in by their maternal uncle. However, the combined burden of financial hardships and the stigma surrounding HIV made it difficult for him to care for all three, ultimately leading to the boys’ placement in a Child Care Institution (CCI). Though the CCI provided for their basic needs and education, the separation from their sister and family left them facing deep emotional challenges.
Years passed, but the turning point came when Mahesh Foundation, supported by Miracle Foundation India, recognized the need for a holistic intervention to reunite and empower the siblings as part of the family-based care initiative. Through regular counseling, the siblings slowly opened up to the idea of reuniting and the possibility of living independently, as their uncle’s home was no longer sufficient for all of them. Their sister also received guidance to help her understand and accept the idea of reunification.
With continued support, the siblings pursued their higher education. Abhi completed a diploma in mechanical engineering; his sister finished her pre-university course; and his brother completed training at the Industrial Training Institute. Abhi subsequently secured work as an electrician with the Karnataka Electricity Board (KEB), while his sister started working as a data entry operator with Mahesh Foundation. Besides, they were trained in financial literacy and provided with rental support for six months. They are currently linked with the Government of Karnataka’s UPKAR Yojana, through which they receive ₹5,000 per month. The siblings are now aspiring for government jobs, with Abhi specifically aiming for a permanent position in KEB.
Though the siblings initially faced rejection from relatives due to the stigma surrounding their parents’ HIV status, the community has slowly begun to reconnect, inspired by their resilience and steady progress. Together, they are carving out a life of dignity and purpose, supporting one another, living independently, and even exploring legal options to reclaim their ancestral property and create a home of their own. Once separated by circumstance, they now stand united by choice!
Stories like theirs, highlighting the profound impact of family-based care, continue to strengthen our mission. We are grateful to our partners who have played a pivotal role in making this transformation possible. Together, we are working towards a future where every child has the opportunity to thrive in a loving and supportive family environment.