Prema Vihar — Place of Love

The SKCV Headquarters is at the Prema Vihar Village, which lies some five miles outside Vijayawada city. It is built on the banks of the River Krishna which is dammed to create a huge reservoir. Prema Vihar is an 11-acre farm which provides a safe haven from the chaos and dangers of life on the street. It is home to 140 previously destitute boys, some as young as six years old, who are able to experience childhood as it should be lived and build a future for themselves.

The village provides a safe environment where the children can live in groups that manage their own day to day environment. The Vidyavihar School provides appropriate education in basic skills and preparing them for public examinations where appropriate. Older boys may chose to enter vocational training if they prefer.

The farm facilities are very important in providing for the needs of the community, and helping with the rehabilitation process. Cattle are kept for milk and yoghurt and there are market gardens and orchards to enable the village to be almost self-sufficient. There is even a recycling plant that produces gas for cooking using the waste from the 35 cattle. Boys are encouraged to grow their own vegetables and they have the option of selling their produce to the village for pocket money.

Food is provided in a large communal dining area. Boys take turns to help with the preparation and clearing of meals, but most of the cooking is done by those on the catering training course. Care is taken to ensure that the food is appropriate culturally and nutritionally. Children with special dietary needs are catered for, including a high protein diet for those suffering from long term health problems such as TB and HIV/AIDS. In keeping with local society, Prema Vihar is a totally vegetarian establishment.

Sport provision includes basketball and volley ball courts. Swimming or playing in the river is very popular and the water is exceptionally clean. There are two boats which are used to run treats for the children such as picnics on one of the many islands in the river. An area is set aside as a quiet refuge for thought and prayer; SKCV encourages the children to consider the spiritual side of life, but does not advocate any specific religion.

Prima Vihar is managed by the SEVAK Group, a committee of ex street children who have decided to stay with SKCV, some as paid employees. There are also management groups and committees in both the village and adjacent school that ensure the children can decide for themselves the levels of discipline they feel necessary. The farm is totally managed by the children, both old and young.