Work with Street Kids in Mumbai, India
Location: India: Mumbai
Program Duration: 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks, 9-12 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 5-8 weeks
Dates: Multiple dates year round
i-to-i Volunteering
61-63 Chatham St. Fifth Floor Boston, MA 02109 United States
Description
What does the project do?
Mumbai is known as the capital of Maharashtra and lies on the western coast of India among a group of 7 islands. It has grown rapidly both in terms of population and wealth and is now a major cosmopolitan city. Below its exterior of glamor and famous Bollywood films there lies another side to this city of tinsel and dreams. The population has grown so much that Mumbai is now bursting at the seams with over half of its population living in slum areas or on the streets. Without access to clean water or proper sewerage there is an entire population living below the poverty line without any hope of change.
This project was originally founded in 1957 by Father Anthony Elenjimittam who used to gather a group of street children around a tree for nothing more than chatting with them, just showing an interest and finding out more about them. He was concerned about their welfare and the project formally started when the church donated land to the priest so that he could further his great work. The home started in 1957 with 23 destitute children and currently homes more than 200 children aged between 5 and 12.
The orphanage and associated school is home to children who have been orphaned, living on the streets with their families, have been children of sex workers, have run away or who have been affected by HIV/AIDS. Its main aim is to rehabilitate these children that have been taken in off the streets irrespective of caste or creed by providing them with shelter, food, education and introducing them to various programs within the community.
What's the project like?
The home provides a friendly atmosphere as the children are from backgrounds of abuse, poverty and child labor to name a few. The project also provides quality counseling and guidance encouraging the children to develop their self esteem. As the number of children at the project has increased volunteers are needed to help in the daily care - don't be surprised if the children are really pleased to see you! During school holidays some children that have families may go home but there are always plenty of children during the vacations and you'll still be kept busy!
Highlights
Do you want to make a difference to Mumbai's children?
This is a great chance to help underprivileged children make a difference in their lives by encouraging them to strive for bigger and better things. These children made famous by the 'Slumdog Millionaire' movie have not had the best start in life and your help can give them that little extra push to work towards getting out of poverty. You will have a great experience with some amazing children coupled with living in the major metropolitan city of Mumbai with its Bollywood films, great beaches and shopping, what more could you want!
Trip Highlights:
- Helping some amazing children who do not think they have a chance at life
- Watching a Bollywood film
- Experience the glitz and glamour of Mumbai
- Visiting the beaches on your days off
- Experience life in Mumbai
Qualifications
Why does the project need volunteers?
Your help is very much appreciated to give the extra care and attention these children need, with over 200 kids to look after the permanent staff need any help they can get! To get the most out of your time at the project you should have a love of children and a passion for teaching! These children will look to you as a role model and for inspiration, it may seem simple but giving encouragement and confidence to work towards a better life can make all the difference. As the children have come from disadvantaged backgrounds you may find it hard to come to terms with what the children have gone through in the past but focus on the good that you can do and encourage them to make the best of their lives.
Activities and schedule:
You'll be based at the school and orphanage during your time at the project. In the school you'll be teaching English and maths as well as helping with arts and crafts. Be prepared to get your creative juices flowing as you'll be playing games with the children inside and out! If drama, music or storytelling is your thing then this could be right up your street - the kids love it! In addition to helping at the school you'll also help in the kitchen, the dormitories and assist in the library. One thing is for sure, the kids will love having you there and you will certainly be an inspiration to them.
You will usually be working Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm. If you would like to work longer hours then the project is certain to say yes!
Languages
- English
Cost in US$:
USD 1,799.00 for 4 weeks, USD 275.00 for every week
Cost Include Description:
What's Included:
* Accommodation: Shared room in apartment with a local family
* Food: Breakfast and dinner
* Airport Pickup: Included on arrival date. Ask us for details if you're arriving early!
* Training: In-country orientation
* Support: Pre-departure helpdesk, local in-country team and 24 hour emergency support
Credit Available
no
Volunteer Types
- childcare/children
- community development
- education
- English teaching
- youth
- youth development
Age Range
18-80This Program is open to
Worldwide Participant. This Program is also open to Couples and Individuals.
Typical Living Arrangements
- Guest House
Participants Travel to India
Independently
i-to-i Volunteering's Mission Statement
i-to-i Volunteering provides unique opportunities for you to travel, work and volunteer abroad. Thousands of travelers aged 16 to 80 have joined our volunteer vacations. With over 130 projects on 4 continents, across 22 countries you can join the worldwide i-to-i volunteer community on an extended adventure in areas such as teaching English, community development, conservation, home building, and working with animals.
Year Founded
1994
