Mercy Home was established on 4 August 1974, with the aim of rehabilitating poor and marginalised brothers and sisters affected by polio and other physical disabilities. Now completing over half a century of service, the institute is located in Chettipuzha in the Changanassery Taluk of the Kottayam District. The founding father—then Metropolitan His Beatitude Cardinal Mar Anthony Padiyara of the Changanassery Archdiocese—entrusted Mercy Home to the care of the Sisters of the Destitute (SD) monastic community. The establishment of Mercy Home has helped change Kerala society’s attitude towards differently abled children. Today, the Changanassery-based SD St Joseph’s Province is responsible for running the institution.
Mercy Home warmly welcomes children with physical disabilities from economically disadvantaged families, irrespective of caste or creed. We recognise that the limitations and vulnerabilities resulting from physical disabilities are a fact of life. Our comprehensive rehabilitation programmes are designed to:
Over the years, about 600 individuals have stayed at the facility, received services, and participated in our rehabilitation programmes. Many of the differently abled individuals trained here now serve at various levels of society—as artists, social workers, and professionals and several have made their mark on history across the country.
Currently, 35 differently abled children reside at Mercy Home and undergo
extensive training. Among these, 11 children are studying from 1st through 10th standard. To ensure every child reaches their full potential
Our children also shine outside the classroom—they win prizes at the annual Lions Club competitions and excel in singing, dancing, acting, drawing, and crafts.
In addition to a modest government grant, our strength lies in the generosity of local supporters and expatriates. Numerous individuals, organisations, and institutions volunteer by donating clothing, money, food, stationery, and toiletries. We gratefully acknowledge that God’s mercy, care, and providence continue to sustain this institution.
To detect disabilities as early as possible.
To minimise disabilities and maximise functional abilities so that the children can manage their daily living skills.
To provide the necessary corrective and rehabilitative aid and training facilities.
To impart a proper education to children with disabilities.
To develop each child’s potential to the fullest extent.
To equip the children with the support they need to face challenges with courage.
To enable them to become self-reliant.
In addition, we strive to spread knowledge and awareness throughout society to prevent or overcome disabilities.
Meeting the Physical, Social, Spiritual & Psychological Needs
At Mercy Home, the neglected and the desperate find happiness, peace, and joy. We care for every aspect of our children’s well-being through:
Our facility is fully equipped with the following amenities:
We are currently admitting disabled girls aged five years and above from economically poor families, regardless of caste or creed. We welcome children with orthopedic problems, cerebral palsy, and other neurological or locomotor issues. The key requirement is that the child should be able to manage self-help activities; however, if needed, we initially admit them and provide training to help develop these skills.
A recommendation letter is required from a responsible person—such as a Parish Priest, Village Officer, Panchayat President or member, or a representative from a nearby convent—to introduce the candidate.
