Long term supporters Pavithra and Paul Devadatta from Wellington had a great visit to the Illam early January and in their own words: We arrived in Madurai on January 9th 2025. The next morning, we called Anbu to confirm our visit that day. During the course of the conversation, I...
By making a bequest to the Karunai Illam Trust, you can ensure that your generosity will continue the vision of Jean Watson (to free young and deprived children from the limitations of poverty) for generations to come. A gift in your will—no matter the size—helps provide education,...
Gabriele Reifenberg is a long time supporter of the Illam and helped set up HART (Hans and Annie Reifenberg Trust) a charity in the United Kingdom. Gabriele recently told us how she came to support the Illam.
"I met Jean Watson while visiting relatives in New Zealand. It was...
Subash Chandar, a well-known NZ mathematics teacher based in Auckland, spoke online to our Illam children recently. Originally from Tamil Nadu, Subash had moved to New Zealand as a child. Subash with his Tamil heritage connected well with the children and the staff. Gathered in the campus...
Pongal also referred to as Thai Pongal, is a multi-day harvest festival celebrated by Tamils. Our Illam children celebrated this festival by cooking the savoury and sweet versions of the Pongal (rice with lentils) in earthen pots on open fire. For Pongal eating sugarcane is a must too! This...
Ten years ago to this day, Jean Watson passed away in Wellington. The Karunai Illam home she created for children in southern Tamil Nadu continues to flourish and support children in need. While she is no longer with us, her amazing persona and lasting legacy continue to inspire many of...