Manavya

Manavya is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the residential care and rehabilitation of orphaned children and destitute women afflicted with HIV/AIDS. Manavya - which translates to "humanity" in Marathi - firmly believes that each one of these individuals has a right to survival through access to healthcare, education, and the opportunity to become a contributing member of society. GOAL: Relief, care and rehabilitation of HIV+/AIDS afflicted orphaned children and destitute women. MISSION: To ensure that women and children living with HIV get a fair chance to survive and overcome odds, and to uphold their right to food, clothing, health, shelter and education without social discrimination. Our organization was founded in 1997 by the late Mrs. Vijayatai Lawate. A social worker and crusader for the rights of children, Mrs. Lawate spent 35 years working with the sex workers of Pune's red light area before starting Manavya. One year later in 1998, Gokul was born. Gokul is the name of our home for HIV/AIDS affected children, and is located 12 kilometers outside Pune, India in the village of Bhugaon. Presently, there are 57 children and 5 women living at Gokul. The primary services Manavya provides consist of: - A residential home for HIV positive women and children (Gokul) - Medical treatment and consistent, quality healthcare, including a nutritious diet - Formal education and vocational training - A positive environment and emotional support