|
|
Ragpickers and street young people are not unusual
in Chennai city. Through a survey, we find approximately 25,000 of these
socially abused young people inhabiting alleys, pavements and digging
into the garbage dumps. They have been driven to this unwholesome way of
life, either due to broken homes or due to the viciousness of a
foster-parent. They leave their homes in a bid to become
self-sufficient.
|
|
Our aim is to rehabilitate at least 20
ragpickers a year, build their self-image and help them to be
self-reliant. To provide nutritious food and give lessons in hygienic
living so that they can have a healthy strong body. We teach them to be
self-reliant and to lead a life of dignity.
|
Basic education
is provided in areas such as math, English, Tamil, and general
knowledge. Training in basic vocational skills like electrical work,
tailoring, carpentry and cooking are also a part of the program. Below: Boys at the Carpentry unit with Charles the staff in-charge |
|
The Centre has been
functioning since 1996 and 126 boys have already been rehabilitated. Some have reconciled with their families and have returned home to help their parents financially.
These are just some of the boys who are in the home at present........
We have 21 boys at the project |
|
 Shabir Thangaraj Basha Krishnan
|
