Mizoram's orphans wait for a Christmas miracle

Aizawl, Dec 17 (UNI) Though the yuletide spirit sweeps across the state, Father Christmas may not come calling for the 300-odd orphans, living in two shelters here in Mizoram.

Despite its best efforts, 'Hermon children's home', situated on a hillock off Durtlang, five-km from the capital city, failed to raise funds for Christmas finery for the 220 children sheltered there.

''My children may have to spend this Christmas without new dresses unless a miracle takes place,'' the mother of the home, told UNI.

''I have tried my level best. But till now all my efforts have gone in vain. It is quite difficult to get new stuff for these kids,'' she added.

Hermon children home, founded by Zoram Evangelical fellowship in 1979, has so far brought up 25 matriculates, 10 graduates and has also released 183 children.

'' We take in orphans aging from four to eight years and keep them here until we find they are fit enough to survive and are self-sufficient,'' Mr Lalrosanga, the home manager pointed out.

The orphanage is being run on donations, which the workers said has dwindled after founder president Rev Dr Khuanga died in 2003.

The Home has a good record of up-bringing. For instance, Gurthanpuii (16) is in the National Junior Women Hockey Team.

Another home 'Riang Vaite Run', 40-km away from Aizawl-Seling NH54, which looks after more than 100 mentally retarded children also has nothing to celebrate this Christmas.

The home's day-to-day functioning depends on the generosity of the people who ply along the highway.

''I am trying my level best to take care of these mentally challenged people through some sort of donation, '' said father K T Khawla, who runs the home.

'' The orphans wear used clothes donated by people and Christmas is the only time they get new clothes. However, this is unlikely to happen now because no one has yet offered to get them the new dresses,'' he added.

Father Khawla even runs a school to educate these children.

With the advent of winter and the tune of 'jingle bells' in every street, the children can only hope for a miracle.

UNI SNR SJC RD LL RN1032