The May issue of Samvada carried an appeal for help of funds and mentors for the four children of Kamaluddin, the rag picker rickshaw man who is a common sight in Sector 30. A good Samaritan noticed their plight and asked for help.
School admissions had closed and I was told to try in July. The SOF was identified in Sector 37. This foundation is managed by the Delhi – NCR chapter of the Alumni Association of Isabella Thoburn College, Lucknow. It is a non profit organisation that has just celebrated its 28th anniversary. At present it has 400 children on its rolls. Mohini Giri is the president of the foundation and is ably supported by many prominent alumni.
Early in July, Zarine, 11 years, Kashiram 8 years and Rahul 6 years, went for an entrance test. Sadly Zarine and Kashi were not admitted as they lacked basic writing skills never having being to any school and were also overage.
However, Rahul was admitted into LKG as he was of an appropriate age. He started school the next day and the teacher tells me that he has settled down well. The school provided him with a uniform, books and stationery and even a tiffin box and shoes. Each child is given milk and a nutritious snack at break. Zarine and Kashi have joined SADRAG, an NGO in Nithari where they are given informal schooling. They have the added advantage of being daily tutored by a kind lady in our Sector.
The eldest daughter Praveen 13 years, has joined Ujala, a vocational school run by the Army Wives Welfare Association and is also in Sector 37. She has opted for tailoring and will also get basic reading, writing and math skills. Ujala also encourages them to use the computers that are available. After her initial hesitation she has now settled in well. Perhaps next year Zarine and Kashi will also join her.
But this is only the beginning. The challenge now is to keep them motivated and in school. Any help or mentoring would be welcomed. They will need help in their studies as well as proper food and clothing. These children lost their mother during COVID and don’t have basic necessities. It has to be a joint effort of Sector 30. Do come forward with your help and suggestions. These four children are off the road now! Let’s give them a start in life.
