Sister Lucy Kurien was born in Kolayad, Kerala. She moved to Mumbai at the age of 14 and joined the Sisters of Cross in 1980. She was professed to the order in 1984. She joined the Human Organization for Pioneering in Education (HOPE) Foundation in 1989 and she worked to help marginalized women. While working for HOPE, she witnessed a horrifying incident where a pregnant woman was burned alive by her husband. Sr. Lucy, who had for years felt a deep calling to help the poorest of the poor, resolved to help abused and traumatized women.

In 1997, Sr. Lucy founded Maher (Mother’s Home in Marathi) to provide care and shelter to destitute women. Although Maher started as a single shelter for women in need, the Maher team was soon met with an influx of underprivileged children and men who also required much-needed shelter and care.

Sr Lucy’s tireless efforts with the support of her dedicated team for more than 26 years have led to the expansion of the program within Maharashtra and 7 states across India. In addition, Maher partners with NGOs, government agencies, and multilateral organizations to implement education, health, and skill-development interventions for underserved communities throughout India.