India: Loreto integration of street children

In Calcutta, over 100,000 children don't have roofs over their heads. The girls in particular are at great risk of abuse and violence on a daily basis. The project for the integration of street children provides shelter and education for girls within a private school with pupils from the highest social classes. They take classes together, learning with and from each other. A new society is created, breaking through old caste walls.

Thanks to this project, run by the Partnership Foundation, the schools provide these so-called 'Rainbow girls' with more than just shelter and protection in a safe, stimulating environment, they also give them direction and teach them self-respect. As soon as the girls turn seventeen, the schools begin to focus their attention to being prepared for their independent life.

Net4kids supports girls in three Rainbow Homes: Loreto Bowbazar, Loreto House and Loreto Dharamtala. By sponsoring a place for a child, all associated costs are covered. This includes food, medical care, clothing, teaching materials, social activities, etc. 412 places have been sponsored by Net4kids donors. In the short term, this means care and a roof over their heads. In the long term they've given these children equal opportunities.