BLOG
Newsletter—August 2025
Jeya Gell
Greetings.
We are delighted to meet you all through this newsletter and share many works we have done so far.
Twenty-fifth Annual General Meeting
The AGM was held at the DAIA office on June 4th. It was presided over by Dr. Joe Prabhakar, President of the DAIA board. The attendees were Mrs. Dorothy Manimuthu, Dr Rajaratnam Abel, Dr. Parameswari Raja, Mrs. Loka Jessi Kala, Mrs. Hilda John, and Mrs. Jeya Gell. We thank the board members for their unwavering commitment to supporting DAIA's work among the needy.
Smile Program
DAIA successfully conducted its highly anticipated Smile Program this year, bringing joy and cheer to children with disabilities across four locations. The program was held as scheduled, with the presence of Mrs. Hilda John and the active participation of the dedicated team from Shalom Charity, whose continued support was instrumental in making the event a success. The highlight of the program was the touching artistic performances by the children, including dance and Thirukkural, which deeply moved all in attendance.
On July 14th, 50 children from Shenbaga Special Children School in Kovilpatti received toys and sweets, followed by 37 children from Vidyaprakasam Special Children School in Thoothukudi and 25 from SAH School on July 15. The final event on July 21 brought smiles to 70 children from Vidyaprakasam School in Kovilpatti. The innocent joy on the children’s faces left a lasting impression, truly fulfilling the mission of the Smile Program.
Honouring Shalom Charity Mission
The success of the Smile Program was made possible with the strong support of Shalom Charity Mission. Their dedicated involvement played a key role in making the event impactful. As a token of appreciation, a memento was presented through DAIA to honour the organisation's commitment and to recognize the efforts of Mr.D.Gladson Titus(Shalom Charity Mission, Director).
Tuition centre
We are currently operating six tuition centres across the outskirts of Tuticorin, providing academic support to 148 enrolled children.
A Special Visit to the Tuition Centres
In July, Mrs. Hilda John visited all the tuition centres, spending time with the children and interacting warmly with their parents. Her visit served as a great encouragement to the students, highlighting the strong involvement of the parents. Many parents shared their appreciation, noting how the DAIA-run tuition centres have been a valuable support in their children’s education and overall development. Many expressed that the TATA online classes have significantly improved their children’s English language skills and appreciated the positive impact of the program.
Azhagumuthu nagar
Gracelin, a student from the Alagumuthunagar Tuition Centre, moved the audience with her heartfelt speech, expressing deep appreciation for the role of the tuition centre and its teachers in her educational journey. She beautifully shared that the learning centre and the dedication of the teachers have become an inseparable part of their growth path. Her words reflected the deep impact of DAIA’s efforts on students’ lives.
Saveriarpuram
A student from the Saveriarpuram tuition centre impressed everyone by playing music through a Bluetooth speaker, adding a lively touch to the event. His creativity and confidence were well appreciated by all.
Vellapatti
On Kamarajar Day, 9th-grade student Abishek impressed everyone by drawing a beautiful portrait of K. Kamaraj, the Father of Education in Tamil Nadu. His artwork was a heartfelt tribute to the great leader and was appreciated by all.
Kurinji nagar
This month, students Akilakumari and Pechiyammal amazed everyone at the Kurinji Nagar Learning Centre with their insightful explanation of the seven blooming stages of a flower—Arumbu (bud), Mottu (early bloom), Mugai (unfolding), Malar (full bloom), Alar (fragrance stage), Vee (wilting), and Semmal (dried flower). Their vivid descriptions left the audience in awe, turning a simple natural process into a fascinating lesson in observation and expression.
Natchiyarpuram
Suriya Prakash, a Class 11 student from the Nachiyarpuram Tuition Centre, expressed his inspiring goal of studying at IIT, stating, "My dream is to pursue my studies at IIT." Deeply touched by the support he has received, Suriya Prakash also composed a heartfelt poem praising DAIA’s work, creatively using the sequence of Tamil vowels as the structure for his verses. His words reflect not only his gratitude but also the meaningful impact DAIA’s tuition centres are having on young minds with big dreams..
To motivate the students, Mrs. Sobana of Nachiyarpuram Tuition Centre kindly distributed water bottles to all students.
Tuition teachers meet
On July 31st, the monthly meeting for Tuition teachers was held at the DAIA office. Mrs. Jeya Gell shared encouraging words, and Mrs. Hilda John discussed student progress with the teachers. Teachers shared challenges they face, including student struggles at school and adolescence. Teacher Valarmathi’s group leader system with prizes has motivated students to study enthusiastically. The Director reminded everyone that even small responsibilities, done with enthusiasm, lead to great results.
Vocational Training and Employment
(VOTE) Project
Tailoring centre
We are excited to announce that the third batch of the Tailoring Training School in Kulasekaranallur village commenced in July. A total of 19 enthusiastic women have enrolled in the program. We look forward to witnessing their growth and the positive impact this training will bring to their lives and the community.
Certificate Distribution
On July 11th, 24 women who completed the second batch of tailoring training conducted by DAIA in Kulasekaranallur village were awarded certificates. One of the trainees, Ms. Periyanayagi, who has now started her own tailoring business, shared her inspiring journey. She encouraged others to follow the same path, expressing confidence that such skills can greatly enhance their livelihood opportunities.
Medical camp
On July 18th, we held a medical camp at St. Paul's Campus in Kovilpatti, where 50 patients attended. Dr. Mumoorthy consulted with them and prescribed medications. The attendees received nutritional powder, medicines, and a good meal.
Embracing Elders
On July 9th, 44 elders attended the camp at Zion Campus, Tuticorin. They were given groceries and nutrition powder, and their weight was monitored and recorded. The camp ended with a good meal.
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
