Iqbal*, a tiny and cheerful five-year-old, lives in the lively streets of Mumbai. He loves playing on the busy streets with his three-year-old sister. Playing on the dirty, narrow roads is a bit of a challenge, though. There’s always the struggle to avoid the yucky stuff, with rats running around and garbage thrown at the end of the street, making the whole place stink. Life on these streets may not be a walk in the park, but Iqbal and his family find joy in their own way.
The family moved from Uttar Pradesh long ago for a better life. They share a small home and guess what? There are 14 people living with them! That’s too many people living under one roof. Every day, they pay Rs. 2/- per person to use a public toilet, adding to life’s hurdles. But Iqbal’s spirit is unbroken. He says, “Our house is small, and we don’t have a toilet at home, so we use the one outside. We have to pay and use. It’s not clean and stinks badly, but we have no other choice.”
Iqbal’s father works diligently in a garage, earning Rs. 9000/-. However, this income is insufficient to meet the needs of their joint household, leading the family into a cycle of debt. The joint family, comprising uncles, aunts, grandparents, and cousins, faces financial challenges. Iqbal’s uncle and grandfather contribute as daily wage labourers to provide for the 14-member family.
Iqbal sadly says, “Dad and uncle are addicted to tobacco and it makes things even harder for us”
In 2021, a Community Case Counsellor (CCC) from Vision Rescue stepped into their lives. Later, through interviews, Iqbal secured admission into the Beacon Learning Center (BLC). Iqbal’s teacher states, “Iqbal didn’t just study; he enthusiastically jumped into every activity – colouring, sports, you name it. He made friends easily, and he was always on time for school.”
In just a year, Iqbal proved how bright he is. He skipped a grade and went directly from BLC Nursery to Senior KG in the formal school, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). This leap showcased not only his academic brilliance but also the effectiveness of BLC in nurturing young minds. His progress is like a little victory, showing what good education can do.
Under the guidance of Vision Rescue, Iqbal’s health saw improvements. Regular screenings and oral check-ups were conducted, and the medical team provided medicine to boost his hemoglobin levels. Despite the family’s initial lack of awareness, Vision Rescue educated them on health services, enabling them to keep track of Iqbal’s well-being.
“And guess what? When I was in BLC, I got to eat a proper meal with egg, fruits, and chikki. It was so much better than our usual homemade food. I really started liking the meals provided at BLC,” shares Iqbal.
Iqbal’s mother was encouraged to join the vocational tailoring course during a CCC visit. So, this year, in August, she joined the tailoring course and learned to sew at Vision Rescue to support their family. Iqbal’s mother dedicated herself to mastering the art of tailoring and is looking forward to completing the course in January.
After completing the course, Iqbal’s mother plans to buy a sewing machine. She wants to take sewing orders from people in the community, which will help the family financially. This way, she hopes they won’t have to worry about money affecting Iqbal’s education later in his sister’s education too in the future.
“Vision Rescue has been a blessing for our family. They not only ensured our son Iqbal’s education but also took care of our health and nutrition. We feel supported in every aspect, and it means the world to us.” says Iqbal’s mother.
Upon course completion, Vision Rescue aims to facilitate orders through a production house, boosting the family’s income. This strategic plan empowers Iqbal’s mother, fostering financial stability and enhancing their well-being.
Despite his challenges, Iqbal dreams of joining the army one day. He says, “I hope we can play without worrying about rats and garbage one day.”
Join us in shaping a brighter future for children like Iqbal and their families. You can become a part of Vision Rescue’s transformative mission, helping children access education, healthcare, and a chance at a better life. Your support can make dreams a reality and create positive change in the heart of Mumbai’s urban challenges.
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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
