Sri Arunodayam Charitable Trust

In 2002, a young man named Iyyappan Subramanian witnessed a struggle that would forever alter his life. His path to purpose was paved through personal experience. Growing up in the Thiruvarur district of Tamil Nadu, India, he witnessed the social stigma and ridicule faced by his brother with Down syndrome. This profoundly affected him, igniting a powerful calling.

Iyyappan decided to dedicate himself to serving abandoned children with intellectual disabilities. He pursued an education in disability and rehabilitation, and on May 22, 2003, his vision materialized. With a single child under his care, Iyyappan opened the doors of Sri Arunodayam—a haven offering refuge, hope, and a brighter future for children abandoned by their families.

Located in Chennai, India, Sri Arunodayam provides therapy, education, and support for abandoned children and young adults with a range of challenges, including:

• Cerebral palsy

• Autism spectrum disorder

• Down syndrome

• Intellectual disabilities

• Multiple disabilities

Sri Arunodayam has come a long way since 2003. They began with a single child, and today, they have touched the lives of over 410 precious souls. Through tireless efforts, they have reunited 109 children with their families.

For many children abandoned by their families, Sri Arunodayam has been the only place of hope and inclusion—a place where they are embraced without barriers of caste, creed, or background. Through its work, Sri Arunodayam has:

• Created a space for children to grow, learn, and live meaningful lives filled with care and acceptance

• Provided essential therapy and medical support

• Created opportunities for education and socialization

• Helped children build confidence, independence, and dignity

Today, Sri Arunodayam continues to be a beacon of hope, empowering children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities to live meaningful lives filled with care, acceptance, and opportunity.

Certificate of Registration

• Recognized under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Amendment Act 2006, as a Children’s Home for the Mentally Challenged Destitute

• Registered under the National Trust Act 2000

• Registered under the Persons with Disabilities Act 1995

• Licensed under Food Safety & Standards Act, 2006 (Government of Tamil Nadu)

• Registered under the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act 2010 to receive overseas donations

Our Partnership

Disha Jyoti is honored to partner with Sri Arunodayam Charitable Trust in its mission to care for and empower children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. Through this collaboration, we aim to strengthen access to therapy, education, healthcare, and essential resources — ensuring that every child receives the dignity, inclusion, and opportunities they deserve.