“How happy are you?” we asked.
“This much!” they replied, stretching their arms as wide as possible.
Their smiles, bright eyes, and excited gestures said everything words could not.
One year ago, Manoj and Rakshyak arrived at Sunrise Home during very difficult times in their lives. Manoj had lost both of his parents, while Rakshyak’s family was facing serious hardship after his father’s accident left him unable to work and provide for the family.
But at Sunrise Home, the goal has never been long-term separation.
Instead, our focus is on strengthening families and creating pathways for children to safely return home whenever possible.
A Year of Hope and Preparation
Over the past year, Manoj and Rakshyak’s journey has been filled with care, encouragement, and opportunity. Alongside education, emotional support, and daily care, the Sunrise Home team worked closely with their family to prepare for reintegration.
Regular home visits, family engagement, and ongoing conversations helped create an environment where reunification could become possible.
Slowly, hope turned into reality.
The Day They Returned Home
When the day finally arrived, Sunrise Home held a heartfelt farewell celebration.
There was laughter, excitement, and emotions shared between staff, caregivers, and the boys who had become such a valued part of the Sunrise family.
Saying goodbye is never easy. But when goodbye means returning home, it becomes something
beautiful.
Although Manoj and Rakshyak are no longer living at Sunrise Home, our connection with them
continues. Our team will remain involved through follow-up visits and ongoing support to
ensure they feel safe, secure, and hopeful in this new chapter of life.
Why Family Reintegration Matters
At Sunrise Children’s Association Inc. (SCAI), we believe that wherever safely possible, children
belong with their biological families.
Research consistently highlights the importance of family connection for a child’s emotional,
psychological, and social development. Long-term separation from family can have lasting
impacts on a child’s wellbeing, confidence, and relationships.
This is why family reintegration is at the heart of our work.
To date, SCAI has successfully reintegrated over 200 children — 87% of children in our full-
time care — back into their families and communities.
Because lasting change happens when families are empowered, children are supported, and
communities grow stronger together.
Families need support — not separation.