Tibetan Homes Foundation (THF) is a charitable institution dedicated to the care and upbringing of orphaned, semi-orphaned, and destitute Tibetan refugee children. Established in November 1962 by His Holiness the XIV Dalai Lama, THF is registered under the Societies Registration Act XXI of 1860 (Punjab Amendment) in April, 1963 and operates with a mission to provide these children with a nurturing environment and education.

Nestled in the peaceful, wooded valley of Mussoorie—one of India’s most sought-after summer destinations—THF is among the many institutions established in exile by His Holiness the XIV Dalai Lama- the Nobel Peace Laureate. The Foundation aims to offer home-like care, education, and an atmosphere that fosters the learning of the Tibetan language and the preservation of its unique cultural heritage. The care system at THF is modeled on the Four Basic Principles of a Mother, Brothers and Sisters, a House, and a family. This creates a familial environment where children can thrive while maintaining strong connections to their Tibetan roots.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama signing the constitution of THF Standing - Mr. Maurice Frydmen and Mrs. Rinchen Dolma Taring

Homes Secretary, Mrs Taring, surrounded by kindergarten children in her office

Children at Tibetan Homes School

His holiness, Visiting one of the Homes

Founded by Mrs. Rinchen Dolma Taring, the first General Secretary of THF, based on the vision and guidance of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, the Foundation began with just three homes and 75 orphaned and destitute Tibetan children. Today, it has grown significantly, housing over hundreds of children in family like hostels. These children receive education at the main residential school in Mussoorie, as well as at two branch schools in Rajpur and GohriMafi and a dayschool in Dekyiling Tibetan Settlement.

In addition to caring for children, Tibetan Homes Foundation operates a home for destitute elderly individuals, providing food, housing, and medical care for those without family support. The Foundation also runs a residential facility for retired staff members and a Cultural Arts and Craft center to equip the community with practical skills.

THF continues to uphold its mission of preserving Tibetan culture, language, and values while providing care and education to those in need.
The objectives of the Tibetan Homes Foundation are:

"the giving of protection and help and education to the Tibetans in India, particularly to the Tibetan children, on all levels of human life, physical, social, cultural, religious and spiritual."

In practice, this means offering shelter, a nurturing home filled with parental affection, and an environment of love, care, and support, along with educational opportunities for underprivileged children, including those from the Himalayan region, with whom Tibetans share cultural and traditional bonds. Additionally, the goal is to preserve and promote our distinct Tibetan identity, religion, culture, and way of life.

Institutional Mission

1. To Care – For orphaned, semi-orphaned, and destitute Tibetan refugee children living in exile.


2. To Provide – A nurturing, home-like environment that ensures their secure upbringing and education, empowering them to become self-reliant.


3. To Sustain and Promote – The Tibetan language, cultural values, and traditions, preserving the Tibetan identity for future generations.
   


4. To Support –Destitute elders who are vulnerable and without family support, ensuring care and dignity in the twilight of their lives.
   


5. To Render – Social services through various Outreach Community Initiatives to benefit the wider community.