When Compassion Took the Lead: The Story of 14 Girls from Satya Sai Aashram

At Raphael, we often say, “We do not choose whom we serve—love leads and we follow.” This belief was put to the test not long ago when a quiet ripple reached our doorstep: the Satya Sai Ashram in Dehradun, home to 19 girls with intellectual disabilities, needed to shut down for various internal reasons.

There was no formal request for admission, in fact, all NGOs in Dehradun were asked to be ready for an inspection and a possible shutdown. The girls, all of them with special needs, were at risk of losing their only home.

Resources were already stretched thin at Raphael. Taking on more children—especially those requiring lifelong support—was not part of any plan. But at Raphael, we have never let convenience dictate compassion.

The condition in which the girls arrived spoke volumes. Four bags. That was all—four bags for 14 girls. No extra undergarments, no additional footwear, just two sets of clothes each. Each girl had a uniform bob cut and carried only the barest personal belongings. And yet, despite their limited possessions, they came to us well-behaved, well-groomed and fairly independent in looking after themselves.

But we didn’t step in because we felt we had to—we did it because we believed they needed a safe place to live.

Today, these girls live in a secure, loving environment. They receive regular therapy, attentive care, and above all—dignity.

Our only expectation is fairness and a spirit of partnership in the service of vulnerable children.
To our sponsors and well-wishers, this story is, above all, a tribute to your unwavering belief in Raphael’s mission. Because of your support, we have the strength to say yes—especially when it matters most.

Thank you for walking with us—not just in the easy moments, but in the brave ones too.