Rashmi Rekha Das

Every child loves shopping with their parents. But unfortunately, such privilege is a day-dream for many little orphaned bundles of joy. 

However, Gajapati district administration in a bid to bring smiles on faces of such children took several orphan kids for shopping and made them buy clothes of their own choice.

The inmates of Balika Sishu Jatna Kendra had never ever thought of buying clothes in shopping malls until the Child Protection Unit of Gajapati district made their dream come true. 

The child care organisation which is being run by non-governmental organisation Proud houses 40 inmates. Acting on the District collector’s order, the child protection wing took those children to shopping mall and made them feel free to buy clothes of their own choice.

Sunita Mahapatra, an inmate said, “We were brought to a shopping mall for the first time. Our happiness knew no bounds as we had fun and bought clothes simultaneously.”

Pritikant Panda, programme manager of Odisha State Child Protection Committee, said, “Every child is unique and is special in his or her own way. He or she has own likes and dislikes. Be it colour or anything, they have their own choice. As they are residing at Balika Sishu Jatna Kendra, they wear uniform all time. We have created an opportunity for those kids to buy things of their own choice to make a difference in their lives. We are hopeful that people who are into social activities will initiate this kind of step to bring smile on face of orphan kids. We are really happy to see them happy.”

Gobara Tirupati Rao, Zilla Parishad Chairman, said, “Gajapati district collector has taken a good decision. I appreciate the efforts of Child Protection Unit for creating good atmosphere for such tiny tots apart from giving dress and food to them.”

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