In a country where HIV/AIDS continues to carry a heavy stigma, a small school in Jharkhand is quietly transforming lives. Snehdeep Holy Cross Residential School, located in Banahappa, provides education, healthcare, and a safe home for children infected and affected by HIV/AIDS. Since its modest beginnings in 2014 with just 45 students, the school has grown to serve 230 children, proving that compassion and dedication can overcome even the most daunting challenges.

The story of the school began in May 2014, when Sister Britto Madassery, a trained nurse and member of the Sisters of Mercy of the Holy Cross, encountered the harsh realities faced by children living with HIV/AIDS. During visits to families, she noticed many children were unable to attend school due to social stigma, financial hardship, or poor health. In many cases, guardians showed little concern for the children's welfare, and school dropouts caused by medical complications were frequent.

One case that moved her deeply was of a boy abandoned by his parents, who fled the country to avoid shame. The boy was later locked up in jail—not for committing a crime, but simply because people feared he might spread the disease. Experiences like this led Sister Britto to dedicate her life to supporting such children.

On July 9, 2014, the sisters organized a counseling session for HIV-positive parents and children, in collaboration with the Jharkhand State Education Project Council. This initiative led to the official establishment of the Snehdeep Holy Cross Residential School on September 23, 2014. The school started in just two rooms at St. Michael's Hearing-Impaired School in Hazaribagh, with a small team consisting of two teachers, a counselor, a games teacher, a cook, a guard, and a warden.

As the number of students increased, the school had to relocate several times before finally settling in Banahappa in 2017. The journey was filled with challenges. Sister Britto was often shunned and insulted, even by members of the religious community, who referred to her as the "AIDS Sister." Some refused to let her into their homes, and government officials dismissed her efforts, claiming that the children were of "no use" to society.

Despite these obstacles, support began to arrive. A Hindu spiritual leader who observed her determination financed the land for the school. Additional help came from Australian Jesuit Fr. Crotty, who funded the hostel, and from Manos Unidas, which contributed to the construction of the school building. The National AIDS Control Organization began covering medical expenses, while the Indian government took on the costs of staff salaries, food, and uniforms. CRS also offered medical support.

Sister Britto often reminds her team that “when we do God’s work, He takes care of our needs.”

Today, the school focuses on holistic development. Children are not only educated but also receive proper medical care, character formation, and vocational training. The school nurtures their talents—whether in academics, the arts, gardening, or sports—and prepares them for a life beyond the stigma of HIV/AIDS.

Snehdeep currently offers education up to the eighth grade, with plans underway to expand to the tenth grade. Students who complete class 8 continue their studies at a nearby government school.

In recognition of her efforts, Sister Britto was awarded the "Sustainability of Mission and Ministry" award in September 2024 during the 81st Annual General Body Meeting at St. John’s Medical College in Bengaluru. Local media in Hazaribagh also acknowledged her impact and dedication.

Sister Britto is part of the Congregation of the Sisters of Mercy of the Holy Cross, a religious order that has served in India since 1894. The congregation’s mission is to work for the underprivileged and to build a new society rooted in compassion, justice, and love.

Snehdeep Holy Cross Residential School stands as a living testament to what is possible when compassion meets action. Through the vision of Sister Britto and her team, hundreds of children now have a future filled with hope, dignity, and opportunity.