Bethel Children’s Home

Bethel is home to 48 orphaned or destitute children, with a further 6 supported in their own homes to ensure they continue to receive a good education.  It is situated at the heart of an industrial estate in Chennai, South East India.  The children have a safe, walled compound in which to play, with a play park containing a slide, swings and a roundabout.

The children sleep in large, airy dormitaries (one each for boys and girls) in metal bunk beds with comfortable matresses and electric overhead fans.  We feel that beds are important for our children.  In the houses they come from, they would sleep on rush mats on the floor.   The bunk beds help with ventilation in the often humid atmosphere and provide a good level of comfort. 

The children eat in a large dining room which also serves as a meeting room, TV room and place to do their homework. 

The atmosphere at Bethel is vibrant, loving and happy.  The children love to see overseas visitors and welcome them with songs, cheers and huge smiles!

Children attend local schools.  We provide them with uniforms, books, school bags and fees.  They are taught in Tamil.  Many of our children go on to secure places at college or apprenticeships.

They leave Bethel when they are ready – usually when they are able to live independent lives with a regular, secure income.  There is no upper age limit, although we do actively encourage and help our young people into employment.