Together against Tuberculosis in the slums, Mumbai

Dear Donors,

In Mumbai’s densely populated slum communities, tuberculosis (TB) remains a serious public health challenge, particularly for families living in poverty and facing difficulties accessing adequate food and healthcare. For people affected by the disease, recovery involves more than medical treatment alone. Malnutrition can weaken the body and complicate the recovery process, while financial hardship can make it difficult for families to maintain a balanced diet throughout treatment. For this reason, nutritional assistance and continuous support are essential in helping vulnerable patients regain their strength and improve their well-being.

Over the past few months, Aleimar and its local partner, Lok Seva Sangam, have continued their commitment to supporting children and families affected by tuberculosis in Mumbai. Through the project, the organisations address one of the main challenges associated with the disease: the link between malnutrition, poverty and recovery. Regular follow-up visits allow the local team to monitor the families involved, assess their needs and provide ongoing support throughout the treatment process. Maintaining contact with patients and their relatives is particularly important for identifying difficulties and encouraging patients to continue their prescribed treatment.

Alongside this monitoring, the project provides food rations to help affected families access essential food supplies and nutritional supplements to support patients during their recovery. This assistance is particularly valuable for households whose limited financial resources make it difficult to meet their nutritional needs while coping with the additional burden of illness. By helping families obtain food and nutritional support, the project seeks to reduce the impact of malnutrition and create better conditions for recovery. Support generally lasts six months, with the possibility of extending it for a further six months when patients require additional assistance.

The importance of these activities is reinforced by the broader efforts taking place across Mumbai to strengthen tuberculosis prevention and awareness. In 2026, Lok Seva Sangam participated in a community initiative for World Tuberculosis Day in the Kurla and Bail Bazar areas, working alongside local health authorities and other partners to promote awareness and recognise the contribution of TB Champions. Such initiatives highlight the importance of community involvement in encouraging people to seek medical attention and reducing the stigma that can surround the disease.

Through continued collaboration, Aleimar and Lok Seva Sangam aim to ensure that vulnerable families receive support that goes beyond medical care alone. By combining regular monitoring with food assistance and nutritional supplements, the project addresses some of the social and economic barriers that can make recovery more difficult.

Every intervention helps families face the challenges associated with tuberculosis with greater support and dignity, contributing to a healthier future for children and their communities.