Project Updates 2022

INCH supports a wide range of projects in some of the poorest parts of West Bengal.

We receive regular reports from our partners (courses completed, certificates gained, schemes begun). These reports, combined with our regular conversations with the staff, and (until C-19) our annual visits to each of the projects, allow us to monitor the process and outcomes.

Our most recent involvement is in the Balwadi Creche, Kolkata - this small creche works with children of local street families, and families living in extreme poverty, and provides a safe environment (with tiffin) for children who might otherwise be left on their own whilst their parents work. In addition, many of these children are ‘first learners’ in their families, and receive a fun introduction to learning.

When the creche in Kolkata was threatened with closure recently, INCH stepped in to keep the project going. It is always difficult for us to take on schemes where the funding involves an open-ended commitment. This creche was discussed at some length until one of our trustees pointed out that the consequences for these small children of spending their days alone or in the care of young siblings as their parents tried to earn a living would likely have a life-long impact.

At the creche they will receive food, fun & education, basic health care and, above all else, the attention so critical at this stage of life. We have committed to 3 years of funding.

We financed the replacement of 200 beds at Charulata Bhavan, as the children and staff were being badly affected by both bed bugs and the chemicals used to try and eradicate them.  Also, we regularly fund replacement mosquito nets at children’s accommodations provided by both of our partner organisations.

 We have previously regularly funded the sinking of wells in poor villages: this funding thread is currently suspended because of the dropping of the water table in this part of India (and across India).

Early in the pandemic, we funded a mask workshop where the girls from the sewing program began mask production. This enabled the free distribution of masks together with soap to thousands of villagers.

We provide daily tiffin for around 100 children as well as annual health checks for all the children.  We pay the wage of a karate instructor.  As well as being great physical exercise, it enchases self-esteem and confidence.