The Hope Foundation for Street Children (HOPE) is pleased to announce that it has received a significant funding grant of £45,451 from the John Lewis Partnership Foundation. This grant will be used to support a crucial educational project in Kolkata, India over the course of two years.
The funding will directly benefit 509 children with special needs who are living in the streets and slums of Kolkata. It will provide them with access to education and skills training, ultimately improving their employment potential and giving them the opportunity to build independent, dignified lives.
The grant will cover the operational costs of the project, including the provision of specialized equipment in four Resource Centres, training in Functional Development Skills, and necessary equipment for ten centres. Additionally, the project will offer therapeutic support and raise awareness through the establishment of self-help groups and structures for children, parents, and the community. This will create a platform for shared knowledge and skills.
The project has four main objectives:
1. Improved Employment Opportunities – Helping children with special needs access meaningful work and improve their socio-economic status.
2. Tailored Education – Offering functional development skills through a customized curriculum.
3. Greater Independence – Providing support for functional independence through targeted therapy and interventions.
4. Empowered Communities – Raising awareness among parents and communities, and providing training on early intervention and access to essential services.
This project will also engage parents and communities by building awareness and encouraging early identification of developmental issues. It will also facilitate access to government support and entitlements through self-help groups.
The Hope Foundation for Street Children is grateful to the John Lewis Partnership Foundation for their generous support and looks forward to making a positive impact on the lives of these vulnerable children.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.