History

The work of Inter-Mission in India began in a 1973 much before it came to be an organisation. In the early years, around 80 childcare homes across India were directly sponsored by well-wishers abroad.

In May 1997, Inter-Mission India (IMI) was officially registered under the leadership of U. Benjamin, and began by supporting a small home of 6 children, some of who were physically & mentally challenged, in the North of Chennai.

In 1998, Inter-Mission India took on a small home of 10 children in Thirunindravur. Subsequently, IMI also took over the management of a school for slum children in Palavakkam, Chennai.

Inter-Mission India obtained FCRA in 2001, and was able to support and manage 8 homes from other organisations with similar objectives in South India. Later, IMI expanded their work further, supporting more homes in South India as well as managing a Matriculation School in Chennai.

The activities of IMI included management of Central Supplies of food, monthly Medical Health Check-Ups, Child Care Training School for home parents, Primary Health Care Training for the home parents with the help of a medical team from the UK, children’s Summer Camps, monitoring of homes, and home inspections by field officers.

A magazine with contributions of the children, called “Punnagai” (smile), was published monthly.

In 2004-2005, coordinated Tsunami Relief efforts were conducted by IMI in the Anadaman & Nicobar Islands and in South India, along with partner organisations. A home for children affected by Tsunami was started in Velankani, and was later shifted to Karaikal. 

At present, Inter-Mission India continues to run Children’s Homes, Schools, Day Schools, Women Empowerment Projects, as well as Disaster Relief Projects. Inter-Mission India also works with partner missions in monitoring, partner relations, and guidance. IMI continues to monitor and run the administration of various partner missions.