Girlshome in Kootroad When Ivar started Isai Maiyam in 2003, he bought a piece of land with a large house in Pondicherry from Ganesan, who later became the managing director of the trust. The house was renovated, and first used as student house for underprivileged youth. Soon it developped into a children’s home, with about 50 children moving in. For ten years, the children’s home thrived. Those who lived there look back on it as a time of happiness and joy. The house was filled with music and laughter. Since then, much has changed. The Indian government has tightened regulations, prohibiting boys and girls from living together, and many children’s homes have been shut down. In 2016 the girls moved to Kootroad, which had previously been the location of Ananda Special Day Care. Ananda Special Day Care was then relocated to the former Children’s Home in Pondicherry. In 2020 the boys’ home was closed due to corona and new regulations. By now, most of Isai Maiyam’s boys and girls are in college or have graduated. Most have moved back to their families or live independently. Isai Maiyam still follows all children and offer them tuition money, studentloans, hostelrent and emotional support. The girls stay under the care of Isai Maiyam until they complete their studies or get married. The house on Kootroad is currently used as an after-school community center for music and homework lessons. It is Isai Maiyam’s dream to once again provide shelter for young girls. However, at the moment, there are not enough financial resources 23
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