I have been volunteering for a project called ‘Food for the Hungry’. In the early morning we gathered and started preparing food. We prepared fried rice and potato curry. We packed almost 50 to 60 packets of the food. We started from around 6 am in the morning and finished packing at around 8 am. Then we headed to Pashupatinath for the distribution. We carried the water and the food and 

then headed to the destination. We started the distribution to all the ones needed. The happy faces made our hearts flutter and we felt very glad that I got to be a part of the project. – Sonu

I volunteered with ‘Food for Hungry.’ We in Annex were part of the preparation step, cutting vegetables and cooking. The cooked food was placed into aluminum foil boxes and prepared for transportation. Our group distributed these meals to areas like Chabahil and Pashupatinath. It was heartwarming to see the joy on people’s faces as they received the food. – Sunita

The post January Volunteer Dispatch pt.1 appeared first on HCC Nepal.

In the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic, a community in crisis was brought to our attention. In the years since, we have provided food assistance, warm clothing, school supplies, and more, while working towards larger projects, all made possible by partnerships with foundations like Charlie’s Heart Foundation, and Rotary International to help the remote, rural community of Benighat survive!

Recently, with the help of a group from the tiny island of La Reunion (east of Madagascar, in the Indian Ocean) we were able to commission new school furniture for the 5 schools in Benighat. The generous donation enabled us to not only provide classroom furniture, but support the local workers in Benighat who made the furniture.

Throughout the 5 schools we distributed 40 bench-desk sets, 115 cushions, 30 tables, 3 large work tables, a podium and carpet for 8 classrooms.

Being able to provide these basics makes a huge difference to the students, teachers and administrators and these unspeakably underfunded school. We are so grateful for the support and trust our sponsors have in up to provide these important services!!

Principal Bishnu Khadka, of Richok Irang Basic School wrote this letter of thanks:

Dear HCC,

On behalf of the school community, I am writing to express our sincere gratitude for the furniture support that you have provided to our school. The new furniture has made a significant difference in the quality of education for our students.

Prior to your support, our school was struggling to provide a comfortable and appropriate learning environment for our students. The old furniture was worn out and uncomfortable, and it was difficult to fit all of our students into the classrooms. As a result, many of our students were not able to focus on their studies, and their attendance was poor.

The new furniture has made a world of difference. The carpets are soft and comfortable, and the desks and chairs are the right size for our students. This has allowed our students to focus on their studies and improve their attendance. In addition, the new furniture has created a more inviting and stimulating learning environment.

For example, the new round tables have made it easier for students to collaborate on projects. The multi-colour desk benches have made it easier for students of different ages to sit together. And the comfortable carpets have made it easier for students to sit and read quietly.

The beneficiaries’ guardians are also grateful for the support that you have provided to our guardians.

As a result of your support, our school is now a more welcoming and supportive environment for our student’s education. We are grateful for your partnership, and we look forward to continuing to work with you to improve the quality of education for our students.

If you want to help support our outreach in Benighat, and beyond, donate today!

The post New Classroom Furniture in Benighat appeared first on HCC Nepal.

Missed the first 6? Check them out! Issue #1. Issue #2. Issue #3. Issue #4. Issue #5.  Issue #6.

Remember it’s donations from people like you that make our work possible! Consider DONATING today!

The post Rising Children Issue #7 appeared first on HCC Nepal.

Peak Students spread out around Kathmandu Valley in December to volunteer their time to help others. The students get to choose their organizations, so the projects were as different as our kids!

Angela, Manika, Pushpa and DIpa help orphaned children enjoy Christmas at the Twin Otters boys home. The girls wereable to help the boys with their homework, brought gifts, santa hats, cakes and games and spent the day spreading cheer.

“I was thrilled to have spent my time with the children. Seeing them smile from ear to ears after we entered the gate made my heart happy.  We cut the cake by singing Christmas carols. It was heartbreaking when we offered to cut the cake and they said that they don’t know how to. This made me realize how lucky we really are.  After doing a couple of activities, we gave them chocolates, noodles and juices as a Christmas gift. They were really happy to get the gifts. At the end we had to return. We could see the sad eyes bidding us goodbyes. We had a blast day with them. It was worth the day to remember. We were really happy to be part of their smiles even if it was for a day.” – Manika

Bina, Saraswati, Siwani and Chadani opted to spend a sunny morning cleaning up a strech of road near the girls annex. 

“As we worked, we chatted with each other and with passing pedestrians and drivers, who thanked us for our efforts. It was a great feeling to know that we were making a positive impact on our community, even in a small way.

As the morning went on, we made our way down the road, filling up more and more bags with trash. It was hard work, but it was also rewarding to see the difference we were making.

By the end of the morning, we had collected dozens of bags of trash and had cleaned up a significant stretch of road. It was a great sense of accomplishment and responsibility to be able to contribute to the well-being of our community in this way.” – Chadani

The students from the boys annex also participated in a neighborhood clean up! 

“People on the street thanked us for our efforts. It made us feel good that we could help. Throughout the day, we kept filling up more and more bags. It was satisfying to see the difference we were making. When we were through, we had gathered more than three bags of rubbish and cleaned up a sizable area of the road. The satisfaction of being able to help our community was wonderful. Overall, helping with my friends was a positive experience. I intend to repeat it and inspire others to participate.” – Harsha

Ambika opted for a volunteer opportunity in her field of veterinary medicine!

“I go every Sunday there and do some bandaging and treatment for the cats and dogs at Kat Center Nepal. I observe things done by doctors and vet nurses. I  also prepared some medicine required for the operation.  I feel really good at that place. The love and care for animals has grown much deeper. The place I volunteer is now a second home and a good place to learn for me. I am learning very good things along with the service I am doing for the animals. The importance of animals in our life is a must to understand us and to give love, care and support to them.” – Ambika

If you want to support our students in their efforts to elevate their world, donate today!

The post HCC Students Volunteer appeared first on HCC Nepal.

The above quote aptly describes the journey of the children of Himalayan Children’s Charities and its founders Bruce and Susan Keenan. Twenty two years ago, Bruce and Susan had a vision to assist the orphaned, abandoned, and at risk children in Nepal by providing safe, loving housing in a close family environment, the best educational experiences available, and mentorship programs.  The Keenan’s have taken their years of successful businesses, their involvement in philanthropic organizations and have provided their experiences and the experiences of their peers to the children and young adults of HCC. The students have walked successfully beside the founders, mentors, sponsors, and supporters to become the future leaders and change makers in Nepal. 

Three years ago, I  became involved with Himalayan Children’s Charities as a volunteer. Through my journey I became aware of the need for sponsorship of these wonderful, passionate young students.  Very shortly thereafter I  became the grateful sponsor of a beautiful, now 18 year old young lady named Ganga, who  is an intelligent, compassionate, and thriving young artist. Ganga  is currently awaiting admission to Kathmandu University and is  pursuing a degree in Fine Arts.

Ganga, pencil on paper

I recently traveled to Nepal to visit the children and the HCC leadership. It was my first in-person meeting with Ganga and her fellow brothers and sisters.  It was truly a glorious and transformational  experience!  During my stay, I  had the great opportunity to be guided through the sights, villages, and towns of Kathmandu by Ganga and fellow student Jaman. Jaman is currently enrolled in the Medical College of Birgunj. He hopes to bring his medical knowledge not only to the residents of Kathmandu, but to the rural villages which have great medical need, as well. 

We enjoyed three full days of getting to know each other’s cultures and lives while immersing ourselves in the tradition and culture of Nepal. Toward the end of my journey we developed a close connection and bond. I witnessed Ganga, who I first met as a quiet, reserved young lady, just blossom into self-confidence.  Ganga, Jaman, and all of the students of Himalayan Children’s Charities have a love for life, education, and each other. I experienced a different level of appreciation of what HCC has provided for these students by experiencing it in person. The impact that Himalayan Children’s Charities has had on the lives of so many children in Kathmandu and the surrounding villages (Dhading and Benighat) are extraordinary.

Khushi Ghar, “happy house” in Nepali, is the group home that has housed, nurtured, loved, and educated  54 children over the past 22 years. Dinesh and Hira Sapkota have been the house parents for all of these years. I was welcomed with open arms and left humbled and grateful to have shared two weeks of experiencing their lives at work and play as one of the gang!  Dinesh, HIra, and all of the members of HCC Nepal have instilled a wonderful sense of family, love of self, work ethic, direction, and the importance of giving back to the Nepali community. They continually inspire the students to look toward and accomplish any of their goals, both personally and professionally.  The feeling was  one of pure joy when I was surrounded by the aura of Khushi Ghar and the students’ presence. It is clear that they have an insatiable appetite for learning, expanding, and exploring their worlds and their place in that world. Their love is contagious! Singing, dancing, and reveling in the enjoyment of being together as a family. Pure joy!!

As I reflect upon my experiences in Nepal with the HCC Family, the emotions that arise are of happiness and gratitude. I was changed by the experience in the most beautiful way, and now have a  lifelong bond with my second family a world away. 

I have tried to paint a brief picture of my experience in Nepal, however, words alone will never do it justice.  It my sincere hope that each current sponsor, or anyone interested in sponsorship will take this journey to meet the incredible students and staff that have made Himalayan Children’s Charities so successful in creating the future leaders in Nepal and surrounding areas.

Lovingly told by Carol Hoffman

If you would like to change the life of a student in Nepal, donate today

The post With Love, From Nepal appeared first on HCC Nepal.

This report from Lower Dhading was prepared and written by HCC student, Rina.

On June 30th, we went on a trip to Lower Dhading. The purpose of our trip was to visit and provide necessary things for the students, which was supported by HCC. All together there were five of us: Dinesh, DP, Mun Maya, Arya and me.

On the day of our visit, we all gathered in Khushi Ghar at five-thirty in the morning. We had packed up packages and bags with school supplies, as well as personal care items. Once they were arranged into the exterior seat of the car, we began our journey to Dhading.

On the way to Dhading, we had several different funny and interesting talks with each other. During our discussions, we also enjoyed the mesmerizing sceneries of mountains, hills and paddy fields. Around 8AM, we stopped near Khaja Ghar for breakfast, which consisted of paratha, boiled eggs, chana, and coffee for breakfast. As soon as we finished, we headed towards Baireni.

Our first meeting place was at Success Academy School in Baireni, Dhading. The students supported by HCC had all gathered there, with huge smiles across their faces; they were incredibly happy to see us. This made us feel warmly welcomed. Later on, we met with the students one by one asking them about their school, family, as well as their life in general. The questions were asked  Mun Maya and Dinesh, Arya noted down every different detail of the students, DP handed out the different bags and packages, and I was assigned the role of the photographer. Each student was given 6,000 NRS. This amount of money will aid them in buying basic necessities. Additionally we questioned some newer students, which would also be provided with scholarships, school supplies and personal care items.

When we finished our meeting with the students at Birene, we began our journey to Dhading Besi. On the way, we stopped by a hotel for lunch. The food there was incredibly delicious, especially the soup that consisted of local chicken; that was our favorite! After lunch, we continued traveling to Dhading Besi. Also on the way, we picked up the father of five Magar kids that are supported by HCC. These children go to the Advanced Academy School, and stay in a school hostel. The father and his children were reunited after a couple months, so he ended up joining us on our voyage to spend some time with his very own. 

Our second meeting destination was at Advanced Academy School, where the father’s kids study. Once again, we were happily welcomed. Similarly to the Success School, there we also met up with the students individually, where they were asked about their learning, and their well-being. We then distributed bags/packages, along with NRS 6000/ thousand to each student, just like at the other school. Scholarships were also given out to several deserving students, whom were also new.

We all had light snacks on the way back home to Kathmandu, which we arrived at around seven at night.

All together, we met forty-seven students that consisted of both new and old ones. The children seemed very pleased and thankful for being provided with such scholarships.

Overall, the trip was amazing. As for Arya and me, this was a new one.  It was very refreshing, for us, to be able to help children in need of a more prominent future. We hope to do this again very soon!

Rina Bhandari

If you want to help support our outreach in Dhading, and beyond, donate today!

The post Lower Dhading Update from Rina appeared first on HCC Nepal.

All 292 students received new uniforms. Uniforms are required and many students end up wearing very tattered and dirty clothes to school to fulfill the requirement. The two new uniforms each child received will make it easier to clean or repair their uniforms.

We provided stationery items such as paper, packs of pencils and colored pencils, pens, a pencil case, erasers, sketch books, and rulers to 194 students to help in their studies and academic performance. 

Additionally, we distributed personal hygiene items such as soap, hair oil, toothbrush, toothpaste, hair comb, vaseline cream, nail cutter, etc to 194 students. 

We helped educated them on the benefits and importance of good personal hygiene in preventing children from picking up or spreading germs and infectious diseases.

Each child received the stationary and personal care packed in new backpacks for them to carry to school.

There is a lot of work to be done to help this community, and all the schools and families of the supported students who received the support were grateful and said that the support of the organization will make a positive impact in the students lives. 

Other stories about the students and families in Benighat:

One Child at a Time

Benighat Update From Mun Maya

Benighat Food Distribution Saves Lives

If you want to help support our outreach in Benighat, and beyond, donate today!

The post Supplies for Benighat Schools appeared first on HCC Nepal.

The month March went by in a blink of an eye. So much has happened in this month. I went to several art exhibitions that are held every three years. But due to the covid it was postponed to this year as it was supposed to be held the previous year. I have been very fond of going to the exhibitions and exploring the art and creativity of other people. I feel a different kind of peace in my mind.

Maya Gold has come to Nepal this month. On the very first day we had our introduction. And I was assigned to the group to go to Ganesh School, a public school located in Bhaktapur. There we painted the entrance wall, played with the students, and had some fun time sketching with the kids.

I was overwhelmed to get to know them and spend time with the kids.

This month, I had my welcome program at my university. The program was organized by my college at Taaj Palace. As we have already got to know each other it became easier for us to enjoy the program. We dance to our heart content. It was very fun. 

I have been doing great at my college. It is a great feeling to get to learn new things everyday. My happiness has taken no bounds as every time i think to myself that I have been stepping stones towards the path of my future that I have always dreamed of since my childhood. 

It is possible to get a step closer toward my future because of the support that I have been receiving from the hcc, donors, and my sponsors. I have no words to explain how grateful I feel everyday thinking about it. I will make sure that the effort, love, support and support you have given will not go in vain. Thank you very much.

Lots of love,

Manika

To help support Manika and all the students in HCC’s programs, DONATE today!

The post Spring in Nepal appeared first on HCC Nepal.

I recently finished my second term examination. I tried my best and I did well.

After that we had sports day. Due to covid-19, we could not play all the games in the college.We only played for one day and then the college remain closed. Now we are having our online classes. I am studying hard and trying my best but feel difficult to attain the class through screen for such long time. Our government had decided make all the people vaccinated and re-open the school, college, etc. So we took vaccine and we took the vaccine card .

We are preparing for the Board Examination. We have already completed our half course. After the course complete we will have two  month leave for preparation for the final examination.

This month we also celebrate the birthday of Dinesh uncle. We ate a delicious cake. We also celebrate Maghe sankranti. Maghe Sankranti is a Nepalese festival observed on the first of Magh in the Vikram Sambat or Yele calendar bringing an end to the winter solstice containing month of Poush.

I would like to thank all my sponsors and my donors for supporting me and I am very much grateful for having you all. Thank you.. STAY SAFE…

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The post January at Khushi Ghar, from Dhirendra appeared first on HCC Nepal.

After nearly 2 years of Covid-related delays, Ram is finally in Lyon, France, at the prestigious Abbaye des Vaux de Cernay.

Traveling to France was like a dream come true for me. The working hours are good because we’ll get a break in between. The hotel has a guest everyday despite Covid. Here  in Lyon, we don’t have a problem of Covid. I am still learning step by step because my chef will not provide me a recipe all at once. First thing I had learnt in France was dessert plating and I am still doing it. My chef is very friendly, funny and doesn’t speak English very well. I have friend in patisserie who had recently joined as a employ from August, even he does not speak english very much. So, mostly they speak broken english and like I do broken french it’s very funny having communication with them.

Most of the people I work with don’t speak English, even those people who have come from Poland, Argentina, Czech and all for an internship. It’s a challenge and I have to accept it. I won’t be able to take a photo because of the dish being prepared as per the order and it rushes so quick that you can see it. I managed to take some pictures of my dessert. I am still waiting on a chance to take a photo of mine within the kitchen department.

Still the same person, with the same name just a different mind set and a few new games and I am enjoying it. Keep chasing your goals even if you are alone, scared and tired, I say it to myself everyday to remain focussed and enjoy every moment of my life. Six moths of hard work and focus will put me on the right direction. That wouldn’t have been possible without HCC and  I am very thankful for this moment of my life that I have received from HCC family.

-Ram

To help support Ram and all the students in HCC’s programs, DONATE today!

The post January Update From Ram in France appeared first on HCC Nepal.