Prakash Joseph
b.27/10/01, Agra.

Prakash is a new arrival to RNCH Agra from a poverty affected family in a country village. Pastor Harry has known the family for a long time. Both parents (dad Mahipal and mum Shanty Devi) have died and it was Prakash’s relative who brought him to our attention.

On arrival at RNCH, he had never before brushed his teeth, seen electric lights, TV, camera, refrigerator, washbasin or other ‘basics’ that we take for granted. He had never been to school because his relatives were unable to afford the fees and expenses. He is fascinated by life in the city and loves being at RNCH. His uncle and other village members are pleased to see him flourishing in his new environment.

“He was spending his life mostly in the farms and fields looking after his uncle’s goats. He had never gone to school, never saw a city, never been on a train, never eaten out at a hotel … he really never had the opportunity to enjoy a good life like other children who live in cities. When I visited his home town and met his relative, I noticed him without shirt and shoes. His uncle explained that he was fully orphaned by 3½ years of age. First his mother died of heart disease and then his alcoholic father left him to become a ‘sadhu’ - Hindu saint. A year later he also died when his liver failed. I shared with him about Robin’s Nest Childrens Home running in Agra and told him about the children living there. He wanted to come, to go to school, he wants to be a good man - by the grace of God he will make a change in his life.” - Joseph Singh, Field Coordinator and son of Pastor Harry Singh