Santhosh

Age: 5 years old

Santhosh is from a tribal village of Bihar, an area in India without electricity, hospitals, or schools. Both of his parents are still alive. He has two brothers and two sisters. His Hindu parents are farmers and make about 800 rupees a month, which is about $16 USD. It is common for parents in tribal areas to mistreat their children, and Santhosh was not well cared for at home.

Santhosh only speaks a language native to his village in Bihar; therefore, he has to learn Hindi before he can go to school. Because he does not speak Hindi, he has trouble with communication at the orphanage. Despite the language barrier, he gets along with the other children very well and enjoys playing with his new friends.

When Santhosh first came to Asha House, he was severely malnourished. He is healthier now and able to eat all of the food on his plate at meal times.