Miracle Foundation India is dedicated to ensuring that every child grows up in a loving and supportive environment, preferably within their family and is not institutionalized. However, numerous children are often separated from their families and placed in Child Care Institutions (CCIs) due to challenges such as poverty, illness, or family instability. Rakesh (name changed), from Satara, Maharashtra, is one such example. Financial hardships and his father’s deteriorating health led the local Child Welfare Committee (CWC) to place Rakesh in a CCI. After his father passed away, Rakesh’s mother was left to manage their remote farm on her own, with no support from extended family.

The turning point for Rakesh came when the CCI superintendent identified him as suitable for family reintegration following the training sessions on family-based care facilitated by Miracle Foundation India. A series of interventions were subsequently planned; and the journey began with counseling his mother, empowering her to rebuild her confidence and prepare for a more stable future for herself and her children. With support from Anganwadi workers and community leaders, she thereafter secured a job as an Anganwadi helper and supplemented her income through daily wage farming. Both Rakesh and his sister received educational assistance; Rakesh enrolled in an ITI course in electronics while his sister continued her studies with support from two organizations, namely Catalysts for Social Action and New Vision. Additionally, the family was assisted in getting a ration card under the Public Distribution System.

After three years in institutional care, Rakesh is now happily reunited with his mother. Although challenges remain as the family is readjusting, they have found a sense of hope and stability. His mother, now financially independent, is being guided towards completing her 12th Board to secure a full-time Anganwadi Sevika position. Inspired by her, Rakesh’s sister dreams of becoming a nurse, while Rakesh focuses on excelling in his course and supporting his family.

With continued guidance from Miracle Foundation India and its partners, the family receives regular follow-up visits to help them address emerging needs. As The Miracle Foundation celebrates 25 years of transforming lives, Rakesh’s story showcases how collaborative efforts can reunite families and empower children to reach their full potential.