Educate and Shelter Children in Red Light District

Dear Supporter,

It's hard to convey the atmosphere at the New Light Shelter in the Kalaghat red light district in Kolkata. You can hear children laughing and playing together, books being read by caregivers and volunteers, nutritional meals being served and Montessori-style learning in small preschool classes that engage the very young in the wonders of learning. The smells and sounds heighten your senses and yet it was somewhat of a blur.

One day while I was at New Light, a PTA meeting was being held midday. The children were in their classes and the mothers were sitting on the floor with their brightly colored saris listening to lecturing, scolding, and praising from Urmi, the inspriational director - all for the well-being of the children. Urmi is a rare individual who makes loving contact with each child and woman. The staff is not always paid on time but they are dedicated and caring regardless. The women who are sex workers in the evening come to New Light for a monthly meeting to become better parents, to be aware of the dangers that lurk for their children, and to work with New Light in making sure that the cycle of slavery is broken. 

Whenever possible, New Light gives the mothers an escape route but the issues of intergenerational prostitution run deep. The women don't want their children to be victims of their low status in life and are happy that New Light is focusing on education and skills training for older boys and girls. 

New Light shelter is supported by donations from individuals like yourself, corporate gifts, and foundation grants. Most of the time its very difficult to make ends meet. Each small donation goes far. If you have been donating, many thanks. I can attest to the benefits of monthly donations that ensure a hot meal, a teachers salary, a doctor and a future for children of the red light district. 

Thank you,

Shana

Links:

• 2018 top rated - Great Nonprofit