A Heartwarming Visit to SICW by Mrs Maureen Forrest

It was a pleasure and a privilege to welcome Mrs Maureen Forrest, Director of Hope Foundation, Ireland, to the Society for Indian Children’s Welfare (SICW) today. She was accompanied by Subhatama Mukherjee, Program Lead of Hope Foundation.

Hope Foundation has been an invaluable partner to SICW since 2005, supporting the Umeed Programme and providing educational assistance to numerous children, helping them build brighter futures.

During her visit to the Umeed Programme, which brings together children with and without special needs in an inclusive environment, Maureen spent precious moments interacting with the children in their classroom. She holds a very special place in her heart for these children and expressed her appreciation for the dedicated staff who work tirelessly and compassionately for their well-being and development.

Her visit to our Foundling Home, where our nurseries care for the youngest babies, was particularly moving. She enquired about each child with genuine interest and showered them with love, warmth, and compassion.

Maureen also met individually with children receiving educational support through Hope Foundation. She spoke to them about their studies, dreams, and aspirations. The children, in turn, expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the support that is helping them pursue their education and work towards a better future. It was a special moment for them as they got an opportunity to express their gratitude by making handmade cards as a small token of appreciation for their sponsor. A simple gesture, but one that came straight from the heart.

The SICW office staff were equally delighted to meet this remarkable woman, who has devoted the last 40 years to serving the children of Kolkata. Mrs Maureen Forrest is truly a beacon of hope, compassion, and light in the lives of children. Her unwavering commitment to their welfare is an inspiration to us all. We pray for her continued well-being, happiness, and strength to carry forward her extraordinary mission.

We look forward to celebrating the remarkable journey and work of Hope Foundation with Mrs Forrest on 29 October 2026, in recognition of a partnership that has brought hope and transformed the lives of so many children.

With heartfelt gratitude and warmest wishes from the SICW family.