Humble Start
In 2004, a violent tsunami hit the coast of Chennai. It wreaked havoc on our city, killing thousands of people and destroying thousands of homes. It was in the aftermath of this disaster that young Teni and Silas came across an orphaned child in the district of Thiruvallur.
Thus, Charis Foundation was born.
Teni and Silas started the Foundation to serve and support 12 children who were affected by the 2004 tsunami – children who felt hopeless and lost, homeless and orphaned. These children were given food, shelter, education, clothing and love.
Primary Mission
Charis Foundation’s primary mission is to feed and clothe children in need. We believe that every child deserves to live a fulfilled, happy life, no matter the circumstances.
Today, more than 20 years after Teni and Silas helped those 22 children, Charis Foundation has touched the lives of more than 250 children – rescuing children as young as 3 years from homelessness, abuse, abandonment and worse.
These children are taken home, to comfortable beds, hot meals and a lifetime’s worth of care and affection. They make friends, go to school, go on vacation but most importantly – they get to be children.
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First Community work was undertaken at the Tsunami site
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First Medical Surgery support work begins
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First Child Rajasekhar, He is a qualified engineer today.
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50th Child, Narmada, Adopted from the Tsunami Site
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Vijay, the first child who graduated from home
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100th Child, Avinash, adopted from Tiruvallur
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Boys moved into the own premise of Charis Foundation
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1st marriage ceremony Ms. Shantha, child of Charis got married to Mr. David,
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Current Structure with Guest facility, staff rooms & additional dormitories
Milestones of Charis Foundation
Founded in 2001, Charis Foundation began its journey by serving at Tsunami-affected sites, bringing relief and hope to those in need. Over the years, the work expanded from rescue and rehabilitation to include health care, education, and counseling for vulnerable children.
Through dedication and God’s grace, Charis Foundation has grown steadily, touching countless lives. In 2024, the vision reached a new milestone with the completion of a fully equipped hostel featuring modern dormitories and guest facilities — a safe and nurturing home where children can heal, learn, and grow in hope.
The Team
Silas
Teni
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