Every year, due to neglect, abuse and the need to supplement the family income, thousands of children migrate to the streets of Pondicherry, one of the most densely populated cities in South India. This project aims to protect over 500 street and working children in Pondicherry and reintegrate them into mainstream society, through a combination of drop-in centre and outreach support in the community.
Approximately 200 children live on the streets of central Pondicherry and over 1,000 children live in the city's poorest slums. Every year, due to domestic violence, neglect and the need to supplement the family income, thousands of children migrate to the streets of Pondicherry. These children forgo their education for street hawking, begging, drug trafficking, theft and prostitution. The majority will join gangs, especially those without a family, turning to a life of crime and drug abuse.
This project will (1) meet approximately 500 street and working children's immediate needs through a centrally located drop-in centre, night shelter and daily outreach on the streets; and (2) reintegrate these children through education, training and family support.
This project aims to promote & protect the rights of the most vulnerable children in Pondicherry and increase the involvement of community members and institutions (police, judiciary, schools and local service providers) in supporting these children.
