Deep within a country that has made economic leaps and bounds over the past decade, lies tens of thousands of people lacking basic needs.

 

Along the west coast of India in the areas of Goa and Daman, tribal villagers and impoverished communities live without running water, electricity, adequate access to medical care and education for their children. Student hostels house hundreds of children without adequate facilities.  Homes to care for the sick and disabled are in disrepair and in need of funding.

 

The need is great in this area of the world; but so are the hearts of the missionaries leading a concerted effort to lend dignity and spiritual uplift to the many people in need. 

The Archdiocese of Goa and Daman, supported by missionaries of St. Francis Xavier, commonly known in India as the "Pilar Fathers," have mapped out a strategy to allow communities to help themselves: a plan for pooling resources and utilities, encouraging family interaction within the villages. 

 

The plan starts with construction of community centers for the dozens of tribal villages speckled throughout the Nagar-Haveli area. While tribal villagers live in huts made of mud, these community centers will be the only facility within reach where children can study with electricity, and families can meet and help each other, and missionaries can minister.