Out of Great Loss, Priyanka Rises To Great Heights

Priyanka grew up with her parents and two brothers in Batlagandu, where Chalice's Madurai sponsor site is based. The Madurai provincialate of the Sisters of the Cross of Chavanod oversees the sponsorship of children living in rural, urban, and remote tribal communities of Tamil Nadu state. Families in the area face high rates of unemployment and illiteracy, especially among women.

When Priyanka was little, a tragedy in her family unexpectedly opened the door to a new start. She lost her father, Mahendran, when she was seven years old. Not only was his passing a loss in the family's hearts, but it left Priyanka's mother, Revathi, supporting the family with her limited income as an agricultural labourer.

In their time of grief, "Sisters from Batlagundu visited us and consoled us," Priyanka remembers. While the Sisters had come to offer their condolences, they also had sponsorship on their minds. Knowing that the family had lost their breadwinner, they suggested Priyanka enroll in the sponsorship program.

"I was sponsored when there was no one to support our family immediately after my father's death," recalls Priyanka. "From then on, I received educational, nutritional, medical, and family support." Her sponsor stuck with her all the way through nursing school!

Now 19 years old and finished her nursing degree, Priyanka works in her local hospital. She is proud to financially support her family. Her elder brother, Pandi, achieved certification as an electrician and is self-employed, and her youngest brother is on a similar track.

"Our family is privileged and blessed with sponsorship support and I thank Chalice and my sponsors for their enduring support," writes Priyanka. "I am aware of all the training and awareness I received during my schooling days through Chalice. I remember the site staff, Sisters, and Chalice in Canada, and thank every one of you who had been part of my growth. I am confident that I can build a bright future."