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.
Could use more of this story… Nice!
ReplyDeleteJanuary 28, 2024
Soumi is very fortunate, and beautiful too!
ReplyDeleteJanuary 28, 2024
Wow! Soumi is stunning! Good for her! You must be so proud. Thank you for keeping us updated on the goings on in India! I’ve tried to research myself but it’s all so hard to understand.
ReplyDeleteJanuary 28, 2024
So happy to hear that Soumi took advantage of all of the opportunities CI has to offer and was able to attend college and find a great job. Hearing Soumi's story gives me hope for my sponsored children too! Thank you so much for sharing this wonderful success story and for being a wonderful sponsor!
ReplyDeleteJanuary 28, 2024
barbmc
ReplyDeleteOne big problem in India is that many of the NGO's from other countries are secular (religion based) In the past CI has warned it's sponsors of children in India not to send ANYTHING that could be considered religiously oriented, not even a card with Santa, reindeer, ect on it. CI is vigilant (especially at Christmas time) but not all charities are. I know of one (maybe two) that were kicked out of India a few years ago. CI can't control what other charities do. I know they're trying their best to keep their community centers open. It's up to India.
January 28, 2024
Chelaka, thank you for sharing Soumi’s story. Our greatest hope and goal are that all the children in our program have this level of success. We greatly appreciate your support.Everyone who is sponsoring a child in India will receive an update this week. Please keep an eye on your emails.
ReplyDeleteJanuary 29, 2024