In the wake of Kerala's most devastating natural calamity, which resulted in hundreds of fatalities and left thousands without homes, the Abu Dhabi-based Ahalia Medical Group has declared its intention to take in all orphaned children. "Our sympathies are with the victims of the catastrophic landslides in Wayanad district, and we recognize that children are frequently the most affected in such dire circumstances. Therefore, we have resolved to adopt all unaccompanied children and ensure their future. We cannot replace their parents, but we can offer them a chance at life despite their losses," stated Sooraj Prabhakaran, the senior manager of operations at the healthcare group, in an interview with Khaleej Times.
"These children have lost their families and may not have had the opportunity to bid them farewell, as many are still missing. This has been a profoundly distressing experience for them, requiring emotional and psychological support. They need to be reassured that hope remains," Sooraj added. The group is currently in discussions with the Kerala Government and local authorities to navigate the adoption process. "We await the necessary approvals from the state government and local authorities," Sooraj mentioned.
The group plans to house the orphans at its Ahalia Children's Home on its expansive campus in Palakkad district. "Ahalia Children's Home, established in 2006, is a charitable non-profit organization. We have separate facilities for boys and girls, providing them with shelter, education, counseling, and values," Sooraj explained. The children's home is managed by the Ahalia International Foundation, which operates educational institutions and several hospitals and healthcare centers across Kerala.
"We possess all the necessary facilities to nurture these children. We will assist them in achieving their career aspirations. Those interested in contacting us can reach our coordinator, Sarath MS, at +91-9544000122," Sooraj emphasized. The group, which has been operating in Abu Dhabi since 1984, runs multiple hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies across the UAE.
In addition to the Ahalia Medical Group's efforts, community members and associations have rallied to support the landslide victims. At the BAPS Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi, a prayer session was held to honor Kerala's resilience during the floods. Meanwhile, the Kerala Social Centre, one of the oldest Indian associations in the capital, has contributed 1 million Indian rupees to the Kerala Chief Minister's Distress Relief Fund. Other businessmen, associations, and community groups have also stepped forward to provide financial and medical aid, as well as pledges to rebuild homes for the affected families. The Kerala government has established a special cell, 'Help for Wayanad,' to coordinate relief and rehabilitation efforts.
