Getting kids off the street and into school where they should be

This is Amit Samuel - the Indian Director of Project Help India and one of my very best friends.

One of the most rewarding and satisfying aspects of my work in India is when we can share good news stories about the kids we are able to help. As part of Project Help India's anti-human trafficking work we had the opportunity to work with the state police to help vulnerable children through Operation Mukti.

This week 12 kids were given a hopeful and much brighter future because of the concerted efforts of the team at Project Help who were asked to join in a special operation with the Operation Mukti team.

Anti begging - in partnership with the Government Railway Police

This week some of the Project Help team travelled to the Haridwar Train Station – a renowned busy place where religious pilgrims, travellers and tourists gather and where children beg. This week, Operation Mukti identified and worked alongside 25 vulnerable children. These kids would normally spend the day begging by the railway, fossicking for recyclable rubbish with many preyed upon to work with local mafia gangs. Many of the girls are sexually abused too, which then ultimately leads to their involvement in prostitution. Through counselling and an intervention program 12 of the kids were enrolled in a local school. Project Help India gave them each a school bag with school books, stationery items and some chocolate too. The police will ensure that these kids are monitored and supported over time. We know from previous experience that starting school plays a vital role in ensuring children's safety and long-term positive life outcomes ...so again, thank you!

Also this week, Project Help India was pleased to make a small donation to the Railway Police Station, by purchasing a drinking water dispenser. The police were thrilled and most grateful.
​