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| ABOUT US |
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| On January 26, 2001, an enormous earthquake ravaged Gujarat State in Western India. The massive destruction, tremendous loss of life and sheer chaos that resulted from the quake devastated the entire area known as Bhuj in the Kutch District of Gujarat State. It was one of the most deadly earthquakes in all of India’s recorded history. Countless homes, villages, hospitals, businesses, schools, etc. were either damaged or destroyed by the earthquake. Highways, bridges, water supplies, communication, electricity and much of the infrastructure of the area were lost. An estimated 19,727 people lost their lives and 166,000 people were injured. 600,000 people were left homeless. Approximately 15,700,000 people were adversely affected by the earthquake and many children were orphaned and left homeless. |
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| With so much devastation and destruction in sight, Bal Sohum Parivar came into existence with the sincere and steadfast aim to help poor survivors gather their torn lives back together and to gradually begin the process of reconstruction. Concentrating our efforts on afflicted orphans and homeless children, donations were collected from all around the world. In close association with Bhramananda Dham Education Trust and under the close supervision and guidance of Pujya Shri Muktananda Bapu, the Shri Gopalanandji Vidhyamandir school was erected. Numerous orphans and other unfortunate children were gathered up and provided with food, clothing, and shelter. In addition to providing ample amounts of basic amenities, educational materials and highly qualified instructors were recruited for the school. Many classrooms, fully equipped with the tools and equipment needed for a top-notch education, were constructed. A dining hall, science labs, computer lab, arts & crafts areas, formal living quarters and many other essential structures were erected and developed on a large educational campus for the benefit, support, and well-rounded growth of these children in every way possible. |
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| Today, with our sincere and dedicated efforts and with the ongoing generosity of many noble and giving individuals, businesses and organizations, the Gopalanandji Vidhyamandir school has flourished. We have re-established a support system, provided superior education, and created a wonderful environment for learning, growing and prospering for hundreds of students each year. Whereas many private schools in Gujarat, India charge in excess of Rs. 50,000/- per student per year for their educational needs, the expenses at our schools are controlled at Rs. 15,000/- per student per year. This amount covers 3 nutritious meals per day per child, clean uniforms, current books, tuition fees, medical care, living quarters and other needs of the students. The academic curriculum and cultural activities are well-planned, maintained and executed as per guidelines established by the Gujarat State Education Board. Many contributors, well-wishers and members of Bal Sohum Parivar have visited the school and expressed their great satisfaction as to the quality of the education, the activities of the students, and the goals and achievements of the school and its students. |
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| With your ongoing contributions and generosity, Bal Sohum Parivar is committed to helping more and more poor and unfortunate children each year in this way. With your help, we wish to continue to provide the light of hope and walk with these children towards bright, shining futures. |
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