Commemorating 22 years of Childline’s Journey with Don Bosco Anbu Illam

The stakeholders meeting aimed to better coordination between Don Bosco Anbu Illum’s services along with child protection system such as District Child Protection Unit, Child Welfare Committee, Juvenile justice board, Department of Labour, Police, and likeminded NGO’S. Meanwhile we celebrate and commemorate the 22-year journey of Childline in collaboration with Don Bosco Anbu Illam, a significant organization in child protection.

Participants: The meeting saw the participation of key stakeholders, including Provincial Rev.Fr. Agilan, Mrs. Uma Maheshwari, the District Child Protection Officer (DCPO) of Salem District,Mrs. Jeyanthi, the Chairperson  of the Child Welfare Committee, Mrs. Padhmini, Mrs. Shanthi, Mrs. Pramila the members of the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) in Salem District, Mr. Saravanan, the member from the Juvenile Justice Board (JJB), Mr. Kalaimani,the Probation Officer, and both the former and current Directors of Don Bosco Anbu Illam, namely Rev. Fr. Amal and Rev. Fr. Casimir Raj, respectively. Additionally, present and past Childline team members, Core Team Members from CFS, and well-wishers were also in attendance.

Event Highlights:

Welcome Address: Rev. Fr. Casimir Raj began the event with a heartfelt welcome address. He acknowledged that the meeting marked a historical moment to honor the tireless efforts of former Salesians and Childline members. Rev. Fr. Casimir Raj emphasized that Childline has been a lifeline for countless children, with each call representing a potential life saved. He praised the team’s dedication over the past 22 years, working round the clock to protect and assist children in need.

Honoring the Guests: During the meeting, the distinguished guests were honored for their contributions to child protection. Ms. Nirmala and Mr. Kannan had the privilege of felicitating the program.

Release of the Booklet: The guests released a special booklet documenting the remarkable 22-year journey of Childline, showcasing the organization’s interventions and initiatives in safeguarding children.

Testimonial from a Beneficiary: Mrs. Nithya, a beneficiary of Childline’s services, shared her personal testimony, illustrating how Childline had played a pivotal role in saving her life and providing much-needed support.

Words of Encouragement: Several key stakeholders took the opportunity to express their sentiments during the meeting. Provincial Father Rev. Agilan expressed his joy and pride in witnessing the growth and development of both Don Bosco Anbu Illam. He emphasized the importance of unity in the mission of safeguarding children, despite coming from diverse backgrounds.

DCPO’s Appreciation: The District Child Protection Officer lauded Don Bosco Anbu Illam’s exceptional performance in rescuing, restoring, and rehabilitating children in need, despite the challenges posed by limited resources and staff salaries.

CWC Chairperson’s Address: The Chairperson of the Child Welfare Committee applauded the dedication of the team and called for continuous efforts to ensure that every child experiences a childhood filled with innocence and protection.

Emotional Sharing: Both past and present Childline team members shared their heartfelt experiences and recounted the challenges and triumphs they encountered while working diligently to protect and rescue children.

Reflection from Former Director: Rev. Fr. Amal, the former Director of Childline, reflected on the conditions of the organization when he took charge in 2011. He expressed immense pride in witnessing the growth and transformation of the Childline team, who later became official trainers for other Childline teams.

Reflection from JJB member: He said, Childline has penetrated the hearts and minds of rural people. This is remarkable because even Police could not be able to bring awareness among those hamlets in the Dharmapuri area, he added.

Thank-You Note: Ms. Nirmala closed the event with a heartfelt thank-you note to all attendees, recognizing their contributions to the cause of child protection.

The meeting served as a remarkable tribute to all and hard work of the team and its partnership with Don Bosco Anbu Illam in safeguarding the welfare of children. It emphasized the significance of continued collaboration and efforts to ensure the well-being of children in need.

Impact

How ever we the Don Bosco Anbu Illam will continue the service and hard work for ensure the well- being of children in need.