Started in August 2010, this project caters to children coming from the slums of the Tangra area of central Kolkata. They are classified as children on the streets because most of their day is spent outside their shanties on the streets.

35 children come to the centre which is a local club room hired for the purpose. We were able to do some much needed repair of the roof to prevent water seepage during monsoons. A new almirah was bought for the project to store the childrens’ educational materials and other articles.

Mothers leave their children at the centre in the morning and go to work. We have admitted at least 10 children from the age group of 3-4. Five children were admitted in formal school once their bridge education was complete. Older children who are unable to afford schooling continue to come to the centre.

Apart from academics, children were taught health and hygiene practices through practical and simple sessions taken by visiting teams of volunteers. A mother and child health seminar was conducted for the mothers of the children. A medical camp was also organized to treat children and parents for primary health problems by a visiting team of doctors. Children were also given special instruction in art and craft, dance, drama etc.

Children were given school bags, uniforms, water bottles, slates, books and other stationery through the kindness of well-wishers.

The health indicators of our children have improved considerably with the provision of daily nutrition. We are grateful for an increase given in the feeding grant to help with some of the administrative costs of the centre. A daily tracker ensures that children are fed with a nutritious meal at least 22 days in a month, 5 days a week.