A brief introduction...a steep learning curve...

My hesitation in starting this blog lays in the mammoth task it takes to attempt to portray the many contradictions of Nepal. On one hand, the exquisite beauty and hospitality of the people, the breathtaking geography and rich culture sits paradoxically against rampant poverty, as well as political and civil turmoil. 

(View from the end of my street!)

My time and blog entries for the next three months will be focused around the work I am contributing to with an NGO called Hope for Himalayan Kids (HFHK). I am privileged to be a small part of something amazing here in Pokhara and soon to be rolled out across the country. The project in which I am involved is attempting to establish and implement a best practice process of deinstitutionalizing children's centers (orphanages). This involves establishing a country wide system of safe alternative care for the thousands of children across Nepal who have been institutionalized. There is no functioning structure for alternative care like fostering, adoption or small family groups. This is where HFHK is focusing it's efforts. Already they have piloted some of these alternatives and seen great health outcomes with the children who have been reintegrated into a family setting. As this process is both grass roots at a 'welfare' level and systemic at a legelative level it is a crucially slow process, ensuring children are supported psychologically, physically, financially and socially in the transitions. The project also consequently means preventing children entering these centers unnecessarily in the mean time.

(Some of the children associated wih Hope for Himalayan Kids)

While this may sound large and theoretical, I hope to paint a picture of what is happening in a tangible day to day story. A story that has so far been exhilarating, frustrating, hilarious, sad and often mind blowing. Come and I'll tell you some stories...

(Srikithi- The youngest child at Sahara Children's Home.)

 If you would like to see other photos of the children visit our link below and click on gallery

http://www.hopeforhimalayankids.org/