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Hi From Chennai!​

Read our latest cheers and stories of good news. Amidst all the struggles and challenges of navigating the streets alone, trying to find safe places to sleep and food to eat, there is good news happening in India—and India Collective is a part of it. Here are a few of our favorite stories from Chennai.

Ten women stand outdoors in a garden in India, smiling and wearing colorful saris in shades of green, maroon, yellow, pink, blue, and purple, with lush green plants and trees in the background.

July 2025 Newsletter

This month we’re excited to share IGM’s newest initiative, the Renee Shelter! When girls turn 18 and must leave the children’s homes, they often face unsafe housing and difficult transitions. The Renee Shelter will provide a safe, secure dormitory for over 40 young women as they begin jobs or pursue higher education. Don’t miss Pearlyn’s powerful video to learn how you can help!

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An elderly woman with gray hair, wearing a purple top, lovingly holds a baby wrapped in a white cloth and dressed in blue, as they sit outside on a wet stone pavement in India.

February 2026 Newsletter

We are excited to share that after months of waiting for certifications from the Tamil Nadu government, the first babies have now arrived at IGM’s new Infant Home. Each child, ages 0–5, comes from difficult circumstances, and here they are welcomed into a place of safety, love, and compassionate care.

Thank you for your support and care for these children.

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A group of women in matching cream sarees with colorful borders and a few others stand together indoors, smiling for a group photo in front of a red wall with a sign reading “ICM Children House” in India.

March 2026 Newsletter

Belmont University faculty recently visited IGM, strengthening a growing partnership through India Collective. During their time in India, they shared valuable expertise with staff and children while building meaningful connections and relationships on campus. Plans are already in motion for Belmont students to contribute to future campus design and development projects, with more collaboration ahead.

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India Can Be a Tough Place to Be a Kid

Read Chitra's Story

“Real joy and real fulfillment can only come from welcoming home those who have been hurt and wounded on their life’s journey, and loving them with a love that neither asks nor expects anything in return.”

The Return of the Prodigal Son; A Journey of Homecoming – Henri Nouwen

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Chitra's Story

Chitra

8 years ago, a merchant noticed a little girl begging outside his store. No more than 10 years old, Chitra was there every day, all alone. He called the place he trusted to rescue her from hunger and the dangers of the street: IGM Children Homes (IGM). After her father died and her mother went missing, Chitra had nowhere to turn. She sought refuge at a temple but was accosted there and fled again; she had been on the streets without hope before the merchant made his call.

In a country with few safety nets, Chitra had no choice but to fend for herself. Without family or adult supervision, she became one of the forgotten ones, completely alone, invisible, and unprotected. Thankfully, IGM became Chitra’s home.

She was safe, nourished, and placed in school, where she thrived. Most importantly, she became part of a loving family who understood that this quiet and hardworking girl was still healing from trauma. Over time, her self-esteem grew as she began to flourish.

Fast forward to today: 18-year-old Chitra is optimistic, happy, and confident. She is training in tailoring and is excited for a future career in fashion. She’s also living at IGM’s new Women’s Dormitory, which provides safe housing and meals for women 18 and older. This home allows her to be independent and pursue what she loves.
Chitra will always be a part of the IGM family!

Chitra with group