Lifestyle

Two-day Christmas Initiative brings joy and hope to orphanages across Kathmandu

By Shivangi Agarwal

New Nepal Society Center, Balkot

KATHMANDU, DECEMBER 24 The Himalayan Times' annual Christmas giving initiative saw heartwarming participation from multiple organizations over two days, bringing gifts, essentials, and festive meals to children in need across the valley. Organizations had three ways to participate: donating general gifts, providing essential items from orphanage wish lists, or offering festive meals and hospitality. The Himalayan Times Spreads Christmas Cheer at New Nepal Society Center The Himalayan Times team visited the New Nepal Society Center on the morning of December 24, arriving at 8:00 AM to spend time with approximately 35 children before they headed to school at 9:30 AM. The team donated four sacks of rice, various types of flour and lentils, chocolates, Vaseline, and 100 notebooks with pens. Chairperson Kamal Bhattarai led the team on a tour of the property, showcasing the orphanage's vegetable garden where children grow their own food. The children work together to maintain the garden and share responsibilities around the facility. During the visit, the children were having breakfast while interacting with the team. Bhattarai shared that all children who have left the orphanage have gone on to lead successful lives, a testament to the center's commitment to nurturing and education.

Hardik IVF and Crystal Diagnostic Support Pranavananda Ashram As part of the Christmas initiative, Crystal Diagnostic Pvt. Ltd. and Hardik IVF and Fertility Center supported a heartwarming outreach program at Pranavananda Ashram on December 24, 2025, bringing festive cheer to children in need. They provided winter clothing including sweaters and caps to all 66 resident children. In addition, essential daily groceries such as rice, lentils, potatoes, and cooking oil were donated to support the ashram's needs. The visit was marked by a spiritual atmosphere as students at the ashram chanted prayers, while representatives from Hardik IVF personally distributed the sweaters and caps to each child. Pranavananda Ashram currently supports the education, housing, and food of 231 children, with 66 children residing at the ashram. The institution provides free education from nursery to Grade 7 and continues to support students' schooling outside the ashram up to Grade 10. Principal Mr. Raja Ram Yadav emphasized the importance of empowering children with education and life skills so they can make informed decisions and build independent futures.

Quest International College Students Make a Difference at Maya Ghar A seven-member team from Quest International College's Quest Social Club visited WCDF–Maya Ghar Orphanage in Kirtipur on December 24, supporting 27 children with much-needed supplies. The students demonstrated remarkable commitment by raising funds within their college community and contributing from their own pocket money, even sacrificing their daily tiffin expenses to help the children. They donated sanitary pads for girls, daily-use groceries, washing powder, body soap, clothes soap, stationery, and snacks. During their visit, the team learned that Maya Ghar's own building is currently under construction. The orphanage primarily relies on individuals who choose to celebrate their birthdays by supporting the organization. Most of the children attend the same schools, creating a supportive and familiar learning environment. According to the press release by Quest Social Club, 'The program aimed to embody the spirit of being a 'Santa' for those who truly need care and essentials, while promoting compassion, kindness, and social responsibility among students.'

Jaquar Group's Naresh Manohat Supports Bibek Swachchha Sewa Kendra Naresh Manohat, Country Head of Jaquar Group, led a generous contribution to Bibek Swachchha Sewa Kendra in Babermahal, home to 43 children. The donation included practical items that will enhance daily life at the center: a rice cooker, a pressure cooker, a steel jug, socks for the children, and a Christmas tree to brighten their holiday season. These essential items will support the orphanage's daily operations and bring comfort to the children. Reflecting on the experience, Manohat shared, 'I'm grateful for the opportunity to serve others. My goal is to inspire, motivate, and uplift people to achieve more than they thought possible, while living consciously, responsibly, and with respect for all life.' Building Community Through Giving The two-day initiative highlighted how festive traditions can be transformed into meaningful acts of kindness. Through these contributions, organizations provided material support while demonstrating to the children that they are valued members of the community. The Himalayan Times extends heartfelt gratitude to all participating organizations for turning this Christmas into a season of genuine hope and joy for children who need it most.