Supporting long term residential childcare
Overview

Since 2025 we have been supporting the operating costs of a small government-run children’s refuge at Janakpur, the main town in Madhesh Province. In our view there are far too many ‘children’s homes’ or ‘orphanages’ in the developing world and Nepal is no exception. These facilities are run as institutions for the financial benefit of the private individuals who have set them up and to the detriment of the children. And frequently well-intentioned foreigners become involved in donating to this exploitative racket.

However, we recognise that there is a need for a safety net for abandoned children who have no known families (if that is genuinely the case) or who have no prospect of being adopted or fostered domestically (so far, there is little interest in this option in Nepal).

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Abandoned in a bin

A case in point is the little girl sitting front left in this group picture who was found as a baby abandoned in a bin. She had serious facial defects which have since been corrected through multiple operations by a skilled maxillofacial surgeon. But her family are untraceable and even if relatives could be found, there is little chance of reunification.

Disability, including facial disfigurement, is highly stigmatised in Nepal and the sad reality is that the child will need to remain in care until adult life and be prepared for independent living in due course. Although a child’s basic care costs can be met through government funding at this facility, we are supplementing the fixed rate with the extra funds required for this little girl’s additional care needs.

Fundraising needs

This facility is funded at a basic level by the local authority. Pipal Tree’s contribution is to supplement that with what is required for additional care needs (like for the child mentioned) and to fund treats like presents and outings that will brighten up these children’s lives.

You can contribute towards this through our Christmas 2025 Big Give appeal, where all gifts will automatically double in value. The appeal will launch on the 9th December. If you’d like to be sent a reminder, please let Philip know.