Message from HAPC’s founding Patron, Mother Colombiere
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We catch up with HAPC’s founding Patron, Mother Colombiere, to let her know that the HAPC school in Gambia has, in her honour, been given her name. Read what she had to say.
“I am honoured to see that my love for the poor is being perpetuated and I thank God I met Derrick so that I could be a part of this wonderful work.
I was recently handed a copy of the Colombiere School brochure and was thrilled to see this great project, given my name. As a former headmistress of St. Anne’s, one of the finest schools in Mumbai, this means so much to me and I am positively excited. I nearly fell to the ground when I saw the brochure with the name Colombiere School on the cover, and the sweet little baby sporting a paper hat with the words ‘My Queen’. It is remarkable that my involvement in the humble beginnings of HAPC, and our contribution through St Anne’s, has brought upon me this wonderful moment to witness in my lifetime.
Mother Colombiere, above (left) at one of HAPC’s fundraising event in 1990, Brent Town Hall, London and (right)
in Pune, India this September 2015, proudly holding up the Colombiere School brochure
I first met Derrick 35 years ago when he was on a trip from England. He was related to the kindergarten teacher, Eva Pereira, at my school. I really don’t know what made me ask him to do something for India’s poor on his return to England. I never thought for a minute, however, that our meeting would lead to such great work being done by so many people who are part of HELP A POOR CHILD, especially Colombiere School! Any number of my students all over the world would recognise this school!
Above (and below), Mother Colombiere in the 80’s, deeply involved in the work of HAPC
You, the supporters, are among many who have been raising funds for our inspiration and I want to thank you and tell you that I have placed you and your families and your needs and all your dreams into my daily prayers. I wish HELP A POOR CHILD all the very best on the occasion of its 35th anniversary, which comes as a fitting gift just a few days before my 89th birthday.
Thank you for this wonderful news and may God bless all those who have been part of this journey and the school, our school, Colombiere School, and all the children who will benefit from an education there.
With love and gratitude of the poor, I close and add my own love, deep appreciation and gratitude.”
– Mother Colombiere