Palvancha
In September 2005, we had the privilege of visiting this Children’s Home for the very first time. The home is located within a 1-hour drive from another new home that we started in Wyra. They are both located in the Khammam State of Andhra Pradesh. The children live inside of a church. The pastor of the church is also their main caretaker. His name is Karne and his wife’s name is Satyavanthi. They have two daughters, Laya and Sruthi. Laya, the older daughter, helps to care for the children and has taught the boys many songs.
There are over 20 boys who live inside of the church. The majority of the boys are between the ages of 6 and 12. They sleep on the floor each night with a mat underneath of them. This is typical of many Indians. Each child owns a small suitcase, which looks like a “tool box”. They keep in their suitcase their school supplies and any personal items they may own. They also keep their plate and cup that they eat and drink from each day on or inside of their suitcase. This Children’s Home has a cook that feeds the children each day. She also helps to care for the children in other ways as well.
The Palvancha Children’s Home is located just below a large mountain. It is a beautiful area. The village in which they live is actually a handicap colony. The government has designated this area for many with disabilities to live here. This will be a wonderful way for the children to reach out to many around them who are hurting.