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Newsletter — April 2026
Jeya Gell
Greetings.
We are delighted to meet you all through this newsletter and share many works we have done so far.
Smile Program
On March 25th, as part of the ‘Smile Program’ toys and sweets were distributed to children with disabilities at Dymphna Special School. The event turned deeply emotional as the children, despite their physical and mental challenges, delivered a heartfelt dance performance that moved the audience to tears. Their resilience, joy, and enthusiasm created an unforgettable atmosphere, reminding everyone present of the strength found in pure innocence and determination.
Witnessing their radiant smiles inspired a renewed commitment among us and others in attendance to continue supporting and uplifting those in need. The children left the event with great joy and smiles. Sister Jeya Edwin (Principal, Dhymphna Special school) expressed sincere gratitude to DAIA for their generous contribution, which helped make the day truly special and meaningful for every child involved.
Vocational Training and Employment (VOTE Project)
International Women’s Day celebration
On March 7th, DAIA organised an International Women’s Day celebration in Kulasekharanallur village, bringing together 10 women’s self-help groups from Kulasekaranallur and Osanoothu for an enthusiastic and empowering gathering. The event featured a range of sports competitions, with participants showing remarkable enthusiasm and teamwork. A standout moment was the participation of 65 years old Mrs. Maharasi, whose determination and energy served as a powerful inspiration, reinforcing the message that age is no barrier to active involvement and community leadership.
The gathering also provided a platform for women to share their success stories. Mrs. Kalaiarasi of the Krishna Self-Help Group shared how she accessed a group loan to start a textile shop, improving her family’s economic stability. Similarly, Mrs. Uchimahali of the Malligai Self-Help Group spoke about securing employment through the government’s school breakfast scheme, made possible by her group's involvement. The celebration concluded with prize distribution for competition winners and tea and refreshments for all, leaving attendees with a strong sense of joy, motivation, and collective achievement.
Tailoring centre
The first batch of the tailoring training program is underway in Osanoothu village, with 25 enthusiastic women actively participating. This program is designed to equip them with valuable tailoring and design skills, enabling them to enhance their livelihood opportunities and move toward financial independence.
Their eagerness to learn and consistent participation reflect a strong sense of determination and hope for a brighter future. This initiative marks a meaningful step toward empowering women in the community and supporting their journey toward self-reliance.
Paving her own success
Mrs. Sudha (31years), a resident of Oosanuthu village, is a proud example of determination and self-reliance. Married with two children, and with her husband serving as a police officer, Sudha long aspired to build a career of her own and contribute equally to her family. However, she was unsure of how to begin her journey until the DAIA organisation introduced a tailoring training program in Kulasekaranallur village. Seizing the opportunity, she enrolled in the program and completed her training.
She runs her own tailoring shop in Oosanuthu village, where she stitches garments and also sells Kabaddi jerseys and ready-made clothing to expand her business. With her venture progressing well, she now earns an independent income and takes pride in her achievements. Sudha expressed heartfelt gratitude to DAIA for empowering her with the skills and confidence to transform her aspirations into reality.
PALAM Project
Strengthening self-help groups
On March 3rd, a visit was made to the Women’s Self-Help Group (SHG) in Oosanuthu village, where 11 members participated in the meeting. The group’s income, expenses, and savings records were reviewed and verified, reflecting their commitment to transparency and their steady progress toward economic self-reliance.
Tuition centre
We currently operate six educational training centres in the suburban areas of Thoothukudi, providing ongoing academic support to 139 children. Our students are actively preparing for their annual examinations, demonstrating dedication and enthusiasm in their learning. These centres continue to play a vital role in nurturing their educational growth and fostering a supportive environment for academic success.
Mobile library
The "Reading Challenge 6" program for this academic year concluded this month with great enthusiasm. Children actively shared details about the books they read, along with their thoughts and insights, reflecting their growing curiosity and love for reading. The program successfully encouraged literacy, critical thinking, and a joy for learning among all participants.
Tuition teachers meet
On March 31st, a meeting for tuition teachers was held at the DAIA office in Kirubai Nagar. During the session, Mrs. Helen shared an inspiring message, and Mrs. Hilda John invited the teachers to discuss the challenges they faced throughout the year, as well as their most memorable experiences. Each teacher shared their experiences, reflecting both the hurdles they overcame and the rewarding moments in their teaching journey.
The Director commended all the teachers for their dedication and hard work over the year. She concluded the meeting with words of appreciation, encouraging them to begin the next academic year with renewed enthusiasm. The session ended with the teachers submitting their monthly reports, marking a productive and reflective conclusion to the year’s activities.
Embracing Elders
On March 11th, in celebration of International Women’s Day, a special gathering for senior citizens was held at Zion Campus, Kandasamypuram. Mrs. Eben Jason highlighted the achievements of women, emphasizing their role as beacons of light for their homes and the nation, which drew cheers and applause from all participants. After the program, monthly grocery items and nutritional flour were distributed, followed by a delicious lunch, leaving everyone nourished and uplifted.
Thank you to all our supporters
We were able to do the work just because you stood behind us. Our heartfelt thanks for your consistent support in reaching out to make our vulnerable communities better.
We look forward to working with you. Thank you once again.
Reflection: Kindness
"Always help someone. You might be the only one who does."
Let us be kind and lighten the burden of those who are suffering.
Debasish Mridha - QUOTESTATS.COM
Development Association for Integrated Activity (DAIA)
5E/95, Kirubai Nagar, Tuticorin, Tamilnadu, India. 628 008.
Phone: +91 9488373224 (0461) 2311548, 2391548, Email: admin@daiaindia.org
Founder: Mr. Gell Joseph 1945 - 2015
Bank name | A/c name | A/c No S/B | IFSC code |
|---|---|---|---|
International Needs Australia | 69 579 7035 (Donations from within Australia)
Ref: DAIA India - Donor name | BSB: 083 125 | |
City Union Bank, Tuticorin | Development Association for Integrated Activity | 085001000097607
(Donations Within India) | CIUB 0000085 |
State Bank of India, New Delhi | Development Association for Integrated Activity | 40113007625
(Donations from countries other than India) | SBIN 0000691 |
Mrs. Jeya Gell
