In the heart of Mumbai’s M East ward, where poverty is a daily challenge, resides a 4-year-old boy named Amar* in Shivaji Nagar. He occasionally falls ill due to the unsanitary conditions in the slum, and he has to walk across a drainage ditch (nalla).
Mumbai’s M East ward faces extreme poverty, with around 78% of its population living in harsh conditions. The area comprises over 250 slums, resettlement colonies, and the 132-hectare Deonar dumping ground, where residents struggle for basic amenities.1
Amar’s family migrated from Uttar Pradesh to Mumbai to live a better life. However, their experience in Mumbai has been marked by financial instability and health risks, making it far from smooth sailing. His father, Masood*, used to work in the Deonar dumping area, sorting and selling recyclables to make ends meet. However, the pandemic made their already tough life even tougher.
But in the midst of all this difficulty, there was a shining light. Amar’s mother, Daima*, is a strong and determined woman, reached out to Vision Rescue during the admission process, and enrolled Amar in the Beacon Learning Center (BLC).
Amar is a remarkably obedient child who listens to his parents and shows respect to adults and neighbours. He’s enthusiastic about his studies and regularly studies at home with his mother’s help. Despite facing challenges, he attended BLC regularly, excelling academically and forming lasting friendships.
To support the family, Daima*, an active community member and a champion, underwent the tailoring course offered by Vision Rescue. She skillfully seemed 75 uniforms for the girls and 50 for the boys at the BLC. Her diligent work earned her Rs. 3000, which brought much-needed stability to their lives. She even sews saree blouses and salwar kameez for friends and neighbours, earning some income.
Amar’s dream is to become a police officer in the future. Vision Rescue is helping him achieve this goal by enrolling him in a formal school and providing ongoing educational support. His parents actively participate in Vision Rescue’s awareness programs. Diama* not only attends Vision Rescue programs but also encourages others to join.
Amar’s mother says, “Vision Rescue has been a lifeline for our family. They helped Amar with his education and gave me the skills to support our family during tough times. We are forever grateful for their unwavering support.”
To take action and be part of this transformative journey, consider volunteering or donating to Vision Rescue today. By supporting Vision Rescue’s initiatives, you empower more children like Amar to break free from the cycle of poverty and pursue their dreams.
You can either engage a child in education for ₹1800 per month or engage & sustain a child’s education for ₹3300 per month. Your contribution can offer countless children trapped in Mumbai’s urban poverty a brighter future.
*Names Changed to Protect Privacy
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Vision Rescue exists to rescue children from all forms of exploitation by engaging and sustaining them in education. We are a registered NGO for child education under the Bombay Public Trust Act 1950.
You too can partner with Vision Rescue to empower people to find their purpose, enjoy their rights and live with dignity
Join us as a volunteer – www.visionrescue.co.in/volunteer
Partner with Vision Rescue as a donor – www.visionrescue.co.in/donate
