By Heather Moore | Supporter Engagement Officer
We want to share Durga's story with you – a powerful example of how your support has helped protect a vulnerable child and reunite her with her family.
Durga, a 13-year-old girl, lives with her parents and five siblings. Her father works as a daily wage labourer to support the family. One day, Durga left home, telling her family she was going to buy groceries. Hours passed, but she never returned.
Durga had been lured away by a man who promised her work in a paddy field. For over two weeks, she was trapped, forced to work for him while enduring physical abuse as he frequently drank and beat her. Eventually, Durga found the courage to escape. She fled by train to Delhi, arriving alone and afraid in a city she did not know.
In Delhi, a kind passer-by noticed Durga and, after learning she was lost, took her to the police station. This is where Railway Children India stepped in. Our team provided Durga with immediate emotional support at the station, as well as food and water. They contacted the police in her home district, who informed them Durga had been reported missing and that her parents were desperately searching for her.
Once her parents learned that Durga was safe, they were overwhelmed with relief. They immediately travelled to Delhi to bring their daughter home. The reunion was filled with gratitude, and Durga’s parents thanked the Railway Children team for protecting and caring for their daughter during such a difficult time.
As part of our commitment to long-term family support, we advised Durga’s parents on the importance of keeping her in school to secure her future. They agreed wholeheartedly and have pledged to prioritise her education. Our family reintegration team is closely monitoring Durga’s situation, ensuring she continues to recover from her traumatic experience and remains in school.
Durga’s journey is one of resilience, and with your support, we were able to help her find safety and hope.
Thank you for being part of the effort to protect children like Durga and for helping us make a lasting impact on their lives.
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