Transforming Lives, One Act of Compassion at a Time
Joe and Soman have arrived home safely after an inspiring and transformational journey through Tamil Nadu, where they visited Embrace a Village’s rehab center, hospice, and leprosy colonies. Along the way, they witnessed firsthand the incredible impact of your support—lives being restored, dignity renewed, and hope rekindled. From Thankavel, who no longer has to beg for food, to Rasathi, who found a family in Embrace a Village, and Shanmugam, who can now walk with ease thanks to a simple yet life-changing gift of shoes—these are just a few of the powerful stories made possible by your generosity.
Please read more below to see how your prayers and financial support continue to transform so many lives!
Bringing Hope to Thankavel and Anjalai
For nearly 45 years, Thankavel lived with the pain and isolation of leprosy, having been diagnosed at just 14 years old. Forced to leave his family and friends behind, he spent years moving from one leprosy home to another. Amidst the struggles, he met Anjalai, and together they made a life in a leprosy colony.
Life was harsh. With no steady income, Thankavel had to beg on the streets to provide food, often eating only once a day to make the little they had last. Rejected by society, he felt abandoned—even by God.
But everything changed when Embrace a Village stepped into their lives. Now, with a reliable supply of food—10 kg of rice each month—Thankavel and Anjalai no longer go hungry. The kindness and care they receive from Embrace a Village have rekindled their hope, bringing joy and dignity back into their lives.
“We are so grateful for the kindness of Embrace a Village and the continued support for all these years.” – Thankavel
Shanmugam’s Journey: Walking Towards Hope
Shanmugam, a 72-year-old from Deviyakurichi leprosy colony, has endured leprosy for over four decades. His body bears the marks of the disease—fingers lost, ulcers on his feet that make every step excruciating. His wife, Jaya, also suffers from leprosy, facing the same physical challenges.
Despite the hardships, Shanmugam’s spirit remains unbroken. For years, Embrace a Village has been his anchor, providing medical care, food, and compassion. Every month, fresh bandages, rice, and gentle care remind him that he is not forgotten.
One simple act—receiving a new pair of shoes—transformed his life. With the proper footwear, walking became less painful, allowing him to move freely and regain a sense of independence.
“You have been my family when the world forgot me.” – Shanmugam
Rasathi’s Story: Finding Family in Embrace a Village
At 68, Rasathi has spent much of her life abandoned, living in isolation after leprosy took everything from her—her family, her dignity, her sense of belonging. Forced to beg on the streets to survive, she often went days without food.
Then Embrace a Village found her. For years now, they have been her only family, bringing rice each month, tending to her wounds, and offering her the love and care she thought she had lost forever.
As she clutches the sack of rice to her chest, her eyes shine with gratitude. “If not for them, I wouldn’t be here. They are the only ones who care.”
Thanks to Embrace a Village, Rasathi has regained more than just nourishment—she has found dignity, hope, and love.
A Home of Love for Kulanthai Ammal
Leprosy stole much from Kulanthai Ammal—her family, her home, and the warmth of human touch. For years, she wandered the streets, hungry and alone, convinced she would die in solitude.
But then, Embrace a Village welcomed her into their hospice, a sanctuary for those who had been cast away. Here, she found a family who cared for her wounds, provided food, and most importantly, showed her love.
One afternoon, as a caregiver embraced her, she whispered through tears, “I thought I would die alone. But now, I have a home.”
Kulanthai Ammal is no longer just a leprosy patient—she is cherished, safe, and loved.
Kamala and Sakkappan: A Lifeline of Support
In a small hut in Kumbakonam, Kamala and her husband, Sakkappan, have battled leprosy for years. While Kamala received early treatment and retained mobility, Sakkappan’s hands and feet bear the scars of the disease.
For 15 years, Embrace a Village has been their unwavering support, delivering 10 kg of rice and medical care each month. With each visit, they are reminded that they are not alone.
“They never forget us. In a world that once shunned us, Embrace a Village has become our family.” – Kamala
Arul Mary and Joseph: Living with Dignity
Arul Mary and her husband Joseph, from northern Chennai, refused to let leprosy define them. Though both were affected at a young age, they chose not to beg.
For two decades, Embrace a Village has stood by their side, providing food, medical supplies, and MCR shoes that ease their pain.
“They never forgot us, even when the world did. Because of them, we live with dignity.” – Arul Mary
Through acts of love and compassion, Embrace a Village continues to transform lives, one person at a time.
Join Us in Making a Difference
These are just a few of the countless lives touched by Embrace a Village. With your support, we can continue providing essential care, food, and hope to those who need it most.
Every gift brings hope. Every act of kindness changes a life.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Together, we are bringing love and restoration to those who need it most.
Check Out Our Latest Efforts
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| Ramesh and Jay | Nurturing Bright Minds |
| Today, we want to share a touching testimony of friendship and faith that embodies the transformative power of God’s love. Meet Ramesh and Jay, two individuals whose lives intersected in the most unexpected yet beautiful way within the hospice facility of Embrace a Village in Coimbatore. Ramesh, with his kind eyes and gentle demeanor, found himself at the hospice after being abandoned by his family. Despite the hardships he faced, Ramesh turned to his faith for solace, spending his days immersed in the pages of the Bible. It was during this time he crossed paths with Jay, a man who had lost his sight due to the ravages of leprosy. Despite his blindness, Jay’s spirit remains resilient, radiating warmth and positivity wherever he goes. Together, Ramesh and Jay embarked on a journey through the scriptures, finding comfort, strength, and friendship in each other’s company. Their shared struggles and triumphs became a beacon of light in the corridors of the hospice, inspiring others with their unwavering faith and indomitable spirit. | Meet Anushka, a vivacious 10-year-old with an unwavering spirit, living with her parents in the Thalaivasl leprosy colony. Anushka is an enthusiastic participant in Embrace a Village’s after-school program, Little Lights. Despite the challenges her family faces—her grandparents were victims of leprosy, and her parents struggle financially—Anushka remains a bright and curious 4th grader, always eager to learn. Embrace a Village’s after-school program is a beacon of hope for Anushka and many children in similar situations. It provides crucial academic support and creates a safe, nurturing, and spiritual environment. Anushka loves exploring stories, especially the Bible stories shared by the dedicated teachers. Anushka’s parents are delighted with her academic progress and passion for learning. They extend heartfelt gratitude to Embrace a Village for providing quality education and nutritious meals to Anushka and many other children in their village. The program not only imparts knowledge but also instills hope and opportunity, uplifting young learners in the face of challenging circumstances. |
As we wrap up this newsletter, we want to express our deepest gratitude for your unwavering dedication, prayers, and support. Your contributions have the power to reach the farthest corners of India, touching lives and sparking transformation in some of the most remote villages. It’s truly remarkable to see the direct impact of your generosity on these communities.
Together, we are creating stories of resilience, empowerment, and lasting change. Thank you for being an integral part of this journey with us.
