Remembering Sarita Basnet

“It is difficult to imagine visiting our Nepal programs, spending time at the Contact Centers, or celebrating Tihar or Holi festivals without seeing the bright and joyful face of Sarita Basnet, long time employee of Bhuvaneshwori Satyal Foundation (BSF). She recently passed away unexpectedly and all of us at Mitrata and BSF are deeply saddened.

Sarita served BSF and Mitrata as supervisor of the older children who stayed in our transitional home, teacher at the Contact Centers, and general assistant and caretaker for all Mitrata supporters who visited our programs in Nepal for sponsor and board trips through the years.

She worked with all ages of children and many of our graduates and older students loved her like a mother. While supervising the older children in our transition home, she taught them life skills, cooked, and made sure they were safe and well cared for. On my visits to Nepal, I often stayed with the children at the transition home. Sarita always made sure I was well cared for too. I have fond memories of her constant care when I was sick and her doing everything she could to make sure I was comfortable. She always went the extra mile, bringing me eggs and peanut butter for breakfast. She always did it with a smile that really lit up the room.

Sarita cared deeply for the most vulnerable children in our program at the Contact Centers. She taught them skills with a great deal of patience and love, helping them to grow emotionally as well as academically. The children will really miss her and the way she exuded joy and love for them. Just watching Sarita when the children were performing, anyone could see how much love and care went into her teaching.

All of us at Mitrata will hold her memory in our hearts and are so grateful for the opportunity to have known her and worked with her. Our hearts go out to all BSF staff and the Mitrata children in their grief and sorrow. We share this grief with you and wish you all healing, grace and loving support during this difficult time. You are forever in our hearts, dear Sarita.”

Christine Schutz

Executive Director and Founder