A success story of CI Kolkata

MSC archived stories - January 27, 2024

Since the uncertainty loomed over the past few months on CI India operation, my thoughts were/are with 4 children I sponsor there. Whatever happens the authorities in India are so confident that their existing government programs are better suited to help the families/children in poverty than relying on foreign aid sponsored charities.

 

I was planning to replace my 4 children from elsewhere, but after some digging realised that CI has some hope to continue their work in Delhi [children.net.in]. That meant, Neha and Trisha in Kolkata are not safe. Last night, I did some further research to find that Jorasanko Community Center (aka Doshi Dream Center) is closed down. I suspect the same for Narkeldanga Community Center, though can't confirm. However, Hazra Community Center (the two children I have there go to) is functioning to-date.. a mystery?

 

Today I wanted to share a story of Soumi (age 19) in Kolkata. In January 2021, I received this report following a scholarship she received from my (then) HOPE trust:

Soumi lives in Kolkata with her parents and younger brother. She is currently in her final year of study pursuing a degree in Travel and Tourism management. Soumi has participated in Children International programs since she was 8 years old and is currently honored to have been selected as a HOPE scholar. She credits the scholarship as the reason she can continue her education as her father is the only earning person in her family. In the future she would like to pursue a master’s degree in either Tourism Management or in social work. The pandemic has left a negative effect on the Tourism industry and that is why she’s thinking of social work as an alternative career. She is inspired by staff at Children International and that is what inspired her to choose social work as an alternative subject to study. She wants to become economically independent and is determined to make it happen. She is truly grateful for your support in helping her achieve her dream.

 

And in January 2023, a further update followed...

She completed her graduation in Tourism Management in 2021 and then took and completed a course in Digital Marketing. In July 2022 she joined a search engine company and is making a good salary – one that is allowing her to help her family with expenses and pursue a Masters Degree in Marketing. She is doing really good and is very thankful for having been in the sponsorship program, which provided so many opportunities for her.

 

Whatever CI decides to do next in Kolkata, I'm very grateful for being able to play my part in the success of its story.