SADHU KOCHUKUNJU UPADESHI MEMORIAL (SKM) MAR THOMA CARE HOME, ZIONKUNNU

SKM Mar Thoma Care Home is a project of Mar Thoma Development Society of Mar Thoma Syrian Church, Adoor Diocese for empowering and rebuilding the life of Kuki children especially girls who were victims of communal conflict in Manipur. The holistic development of children is catered to at Zionkunnu spiritual centre through SKM Mar Thoma Care Home and Mar Thoma Residential School in the auspicious land of Sadhu Kochu Kunju Upadeshi in Kalayapuram, Kollam District, Kerala.

On May 3rd 2023, the northeastern Indian state of Manipur witnessed a tragic escalation of ethnic violence, significantly impacting the Kuki tribe. This conflict, rooted in historical tensions and complex socio-political dynamics, led to devastating consequences for the Kuki community, including loss of lives, displacement, and widespread insecurity. The women and the children are the worst affected due to this conflict. The education of the displaced children has been affected adversely as the schools in such areas are not functioning and the traumatic condition leads to the shattering of the future generation. This calls forward the Church to respond to the cry of the children to build them up to be caring and responsible citizens.

Mission

Our mission is to nurture, educate, and empower young Kuki girls from Manipur by providing a safe, loving, and spiritually grounded environment where they can thrive academically, emotionally, and spiritually. We are committed to shaping their futures through quality education, moral guidance, and unwavering support, equipping them to become compassionate, capable, and confident leaders in their communities and beyond.

Presently we have 20 lovely Kuki girls in the age group of 8-15, studying in grades 3-8. When they came they were provided counselling to overcome trauma. We encourage them to continue to uphold their cultural values. Their educational and spiritual nourishment is our priority. They are taken to various places and programmes, to express their culture and innate talents like singing and dancing.

Our present need is to build a home for our children who are currently residing in a rented house that lacks adequate facilities and does not meet the prescribed norms and standards set by the government for suitable living condition.

Building a home that is in compliance with the government norms is a necessity for retaining the registration and license. A space that will cater to the needs of the children and a place that will make them feel their own.

You can support us by :