Success Stories

From abandonment to aspiration — how love and faith transformed a child’s destiny

It was June 4th, 2004, when Pastor Silas Mathew received a call that would change many lives forever. A social worker on the other end of the line spoke about two young boys left to fend for themselves. Their father, a rag picker and alcoholic, had abandoned them, and their mother was nowhere in the picture. The elder brother worked in a small tea shop, while the younger one—just a toddler—played idly around.

The child’s name was Rajeshekhran, and he did not even have a birth certificate. Hearing this, Pastor Silas and his wife, Teni, were moved with deep compassion. Without hesitation, they decided to bring the little boy home, arrange his documents, and send him to school. That single act of kindness became the seed of Charis Foundation, an institution built on love, faith, and second chances.

A New Family and a New Life

For young Rajeshekhran, everything was unfamiliar—his new home, new school, new surroundings. But amid the changes, he found something precious: a new Daddy and Mummy who would love him as their own.

“I remember coming to a new house when I was three and a half years old,” recalls Shekhar. “Everything was new to me, but I found a new Daddy and Mummy who cared for me.”

As the years went by, Shekhar’s curiosity and determination grew. In 10th standard, he topped his class, and his name was proudly displayed on a flex banner in his town.

“That was the first time I realized that I could study well,” he says with a smile. “I asked Daddy and Mummy to let me stay even after 18 so I could continue my studies. They lovingly agreed, and because of that, I could complete my graduation and post-graduation.”

Today, Shekhar holds a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering and a Master’s in Social Work—a remarkable journey for a child once abandoned at a tea shop.

A Test of Faith and Love

Not everything came easy. Shekhar remembers a painful moment in 6th standard when relatives came to take him back.

“They began shouting and using harsh words, insisting that I go with them,” he says softly. “I could see Daddy and Mummy were sad—they knew they might have to let me go. I ran to Daddy, jumped into his arms, and cried, begging him not to send me. By God’s grace, I was allowed to stay—and that decision changed my life.”

A Heart Full of Gratitude

Shekhar now dreams of joining the Civil Services, inspired by a desire to serve others.

“If my dream comes true, I want to help children like me through government schemes and NGOs, so they too can study and achieve their dreams,” he says.

He continues to assist at the Charis Foundation hostel, mentoring younger children and helping with daily activities.

“I do it out of gratitude,” he explains. “I owe my life to Daddy and Mummy. My story and service might encourage other children here.”

With humility and faith, he adds:

“I thank God for giving me a second chance through Daddy and Mummy, and for everyone in this Charis family who supported me. My success would not have been possible without their patience and love. I’m also grateful to all the donors and well-wishers—your kindness has made dreams like mine possible.”

Love that Transforms

The story of Rajeshakhran (Shekhar) is more than one boy’s success—it is a testament to the power of compassion and faith. What began as a single act of kindness in 2004 has blossomed into a home of hope for many. Through Charis Foundation, countless children have found not just shelter and education, but also love, dignity, and purpose.

My name is Revathi. After completing my 12th standard, I also finished a tailoring course.

I first came to Charis Foundation in 2009 when I was studying in 4th standard. I came from Bangalore, where I lived with my three sisters and stepmother. We didn’t have any financial support, and my sisters often had to go out in search of food. So, I came to Chennai with my uncle and aunty.

At that time, I had a big wound on my foot, and it was very difficult for my uncle and aunty to take care of me. That’s when Charis Foundation welcomed me and began to look after me. Daddy and Mummy from Charis Foundation took me to the hospital every day, but my wound did not heal for almost a year. Finally, they took me to Apollo Hospital, where I had a major surgery on my foot — and by God’s grace, I was able to walk again!

This gave me the confidence to continue my studies and attend school regularly. With the love and support of Charis Foundation, I completed my 12th standard and my tailoring course.

Today, I am working as a tailor, married, and blessed with a child. I want to thank God, Charis Foundation, and all the well-wishers who prayed for me and supported me throughout my journey.

All glory to God!