Tamil Nadu - Chennai

From Scotland, with a heart to help destitute children

— Photo: K.Pichumani

Noteworthy gesture: Rachel Karr (left) and Gillian Griev share their experience about volunteer service at the Kalaiselvi Karunalaya, Mogappair, on Tuesday.

CHENNAI: For Rachel Karr and Gillian Griev from Scotland, volunteering at Kalaiselvi Karunalaya, a social service organisation, does not stop with helping the destitute children and aged people with their daily schedule, but also suggest ways to improve the care provided to them.

The two young women have been volunteering at the organisation, in Mogappair, for nearly two months now. While Rachel graduated in political science a few weeks ago, Gillian is a psychology graduate. “This is our second visit to Kalaiselvi Karunalaya,” said Rachel, who has developed a taste for south Indian food and picked up a few words in Tamil.

Both of them spent nearly a month painting the walls at the short stay home run by the Kalaiselvi Karunalaya for destitute women.

“We have also decorated the place with some of our paintings with quotes of great leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi,” said Gillian, pointing to a painting of a flower done in striking colours.

On their service for the destitute children, Rachel said: “I love taking care of the children - bathing, feeding and playing with them. It’s the most rewarding experience.”

Chennai has almost become the second home for Gillian who had quit her job as a researcher to serve the people at Kalaiselvi Karunalaya. “I am interested in infant psychology field. I am preparing booklets for infant care takers here. I want to come here every year to help the children and the aged members,” she said.

© Copyright 2000 - 2009 The Hindu