In 1972 a diamond merchant, Mr Mafatlal Mehta, donated five acres of land to Mother Anna Huberta, with an old bungalow, a small buffalo stable and a godown, to start a shelter for children. He wanted the home to be called Ma Niketan after his late mother. The shelter began with only 25 children of different faiths. Gradually small structures were built to accommodate the growing number of children. Soon it turned into a beautiful Children’s Home with four cottages, with a family atmosphere.

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The children, aged 6-22 years, come from broken homes, disadvantaged families, or are orphans. Many are homeless, living on railway platforms or the streets. They are brought here by social workers, or by parents and guardians who find it tough to educate them and provide for their basic needs. Ma Niketan caters to their intellectual, emotional, social and economic needs, and helps them grow as mature and responsible citizens. As they complete their academic studies they are guided to choose the right course, such as bachelor degrees, nursing, paramedical, hospitality, travel and tourism, police training, company secretary, etc. Every child gets the opportunity to grow and blossom. Many have secured good jobs, set up businesses and even settled abroad.

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In 2001 the Diwaliben Mohanlal Mehta Charitable Trust, Mumbai, presented Ma Niketan with the Diwaliben Award for outstanding contribution in caring for and promoting the welfare of destitute and orphan children.

POSTAL ADDRESS   

Ma Niketan, 2nd Pokhran Road, Opp. Bethany Hospital, P.O. Box 127, Thane West 400 610