Asha Trust - Kanpur

Ek Kadam is a residential educational project for migrant workers children run by Asha Trust. Prior to their arrival at Ek Kadam, these children worked to help their parents in the brick kiln industry, which involved strenuous labor in often-hazardous environments. Additionally, children used to migrate with their parents back to Bihar, Chattisgarh or Eastern UP for 5 to 6 months every year causing major disruption to their studies.

Ek Kadam was established with the intention of preventing child labor by providing a free, steady educational experience for these children. This program provides the children with a structured routine that involves attending classes, extensive after-school activities and managing their daily chores, such as helping serve meals and housecleaning.

The children attend a formal school.

A brief overview of the program:
Currently, there are 23 children living in a rented house named Apna Ghar Hostel. This hostel was established in June 2006. Asha for Education supports the recurring expenses of Apna Ghar component of Ek Kadam project." Mala India Foundation" organization has provided major support for purchase of land for a future residential facility.

-Average age of boys: 10-14 years
-School Hours: 7:45am-2pm
-Afternoon activities include: publishing a local newsletter, tailoring, chalk-making, music, painting, street theater and more.

Children continue to help their parents in brick-making work during their vacations.

Purpose / Goals
-To provide a safe and educational environment for children of migrant laborers
-To provide an alternative to strenuous child labor in the brick kiln industry
-To provide children with the opportunity to better their lives through a structured educational program focused on social and intellectual development.

Organization Description
The children participating in the Ek Kadam residential education project have created a website and newsletter highlighting their activities at their school. The website can be found at:

http://www.balsajag.blogspot.com/ - maheshballia@gmail.com

Project Type: Residential School (description)

Primary Focus: children of migrant workers (description)

Secondary Focus: children of dalits/tribals

Other Focus: to go to formal school

Area: Urban



Additional Information
http://dangerschool.blogspot.com/
http://mlpskool.blogspot.com/
http://bachpankerang.blogspot.com/