A Message From Our President

I want to share the inspiring journey of the Happy Home, a sanctuary for orphaned and destitute children that has flourished over the years. Our mission to provide a loving and nurturing environment began long before the challenges we faced five years ago when Ranjeeta had to find a new location. Through the unwavering support of generous individuals and organizations, she has continued to create a haven where these children can thrive.

Five years ago, the Happy Home needed to find a new location. The previous landlord was selling his property and no longer wanted the orphanage. With the help of several organizations and one very special man, a property was purchased and the new Happy Home was built. The Happy Home has developed such a great reputation for giving the children a wholesome and fulfilling life. It’s up to Ranjeeta to find caring individuals and other organizations that can donate money. Often, the police, other orphanages, and even family members of orphaned or abused children will reach out to Ranjeeta to take on additional children. She does not have the funds, but her faith in her life mission and Sri Sathya Sai Baba allows her to receive these children with open arms. The Education and Safety Alliance for Girls supports the children’s food, clothing, and education. It’s up to Ranjeeta to fund the property. Sending 50+ children to private school and college is our commitment to Ranjeeta and the kids. Raising that money is a challenge, finding dedicated donors who can see the big picture of how Happy Home life transforms the children into successful, loving, happy individuals is our mission. 

Over the nine years that I have been supporting Ranjeeta and the children, I have witnessed the transformation of one little girl in particular that really cemented my dedication to the Happy Home. Her name is Pandu. When she was just six years old, she and her older sister Swetha were both brought to the Happy Home. Their father supports gender-based violence and her parents tried to drown her in a nearby lake before abandoning her. Her aunty introduced her to Happy Home. They were brought to Ranjeeta distraught, confused, and sad. I remember the moment I saw a picture of Pandu and Swetha along with a handful of other children, Ranjeeta, and staff. It was a group photo; everyone was smiling except for this one little girl. My eyes locked onto hers; I saw sadness and pain. It was all over this little six-year-old’s face. My heart broke. I’m not sure if it reminded me of myself at that age or perhaps I could just feel her pain. Either way, I knew I would never quit reaching for the stars for these children. Their story, unfortunately, is not isolated. Many children are brought to Happy Home for this reason, and some for even more devastating ones. It’s not uncommon for children’s lives to be so dysfunctional, yet it’s a very typical occurrence in India, especially in the region they are from.

Ranjeeta slowly takes the new children on a transformative journey, teaching each to trust and be responsible. She teaches them how to communicate effectively, gives them unconditional love and respect, and shows them how to interact with others, make friends, take care of themselves, and when she feels they are ready they will start school with the other children. I always received updates on Pandu over the years. When I visited in 2020, nothing made me happier than when I got to meet Pandu in person. I saw this vibrant young lady flourishing in school and holding her head high. She’s happy and still shy, but a true example of how Ranjeeta’s love and guidance can transform these children’s lives. Pandu is now in her 10th year, looking forward to college. She wants to study fashion and photography, and we will make sure she and others get to fulfill their dreams. Since then, Swetha has excelled in her studies, keeping an A+ average for the last academic year. She is in her first year of a Bachelor of Business in Aviation program and aspires to work in Airport ground staffs management. Imagine living in fear and torment as a child, never knowing what will happen to you next, not being able to see a brighter future. This is all possible with donations from people like you who see that the children’s transformation not only changes their lives but also the lives of future generations. Their children will grow up with the ability to dream and achieve their own successes. With your help we can continue creating a brighter future for children who once had no future at all.

With Gratitude,

Jennifer Vacca