Description
The Pavement Club offers a safe space for marginalised children from the slums and streets of Kolkata, India, to learn, grow and thrive. Some children are enrolled in school, but many are not, and the Pavement Club is the best chance they have to access education, health and welfare support.
This Christmas we want to provide two sets of uniform for every child at the Pavement Club who is not yet in school.
Each pack provides TWO sets of uniform each for TWO children.
Why uniforms?
Our partners in Kolkata say uniforms protect the dignity of children living in poverty and increase their self worth. Uniforms solidify their identity as learners, improving their confidence and motivation to learn.
They told us: “Although this may appear to be a small issue, uniforms carry deep emotional and social significance for children. Wearing a uniform creates a sense of equality and dignity. It helps children feel respected, included, and valued regardless of their economic background.
“For underprivileged children, uniforms also reduce feelings of shame or embarrassment caused by the inability to afford proper clothing. The provision of uniforms will help children develop confidence, discipline, self-respect, and a stronger identity as learners.”
What happens at the Pavement Club?
The Pavement Club was established to give slum and street children the chance of schooling. Initially, classes were literally delivered on the pavement with just a handful of children, but now the Pavement Club operates from two permanent sites. Last year over 150 children received education, food, health and welfare support. Some children attend government schools – our partners work hard with families and schools to facilitate this – but most have dropped out or don’t have family support.
The children learn reading, writing and maths and enjoy songs and stories, dancing, drama and art. They have a wash and breakfast on arrival, and lunch before they go home. Health conditions are monitored and treated, and staff step in to support children with difficult issues at home. Many older students tackle the popular Duke of Edinburgh awards, giving them opportunities for learning, exploration and adventure which would normally be unavailable to them. The Pavement Club is a safe space where marginalised children can learn, grow and thrive.
This Christmas give a gift of dignity and belonging to 124 vulnerable children from the slums and streets of Kolkata.
A piece of the puzzle for a better future
Education is by far the best tool for breaking the poverty cycle. But succeeding in education is complex: having the right tools is part of the puzzle. By purchasing a gift of uniforms for two children in Kolkata this year, you’re helping a child take steps towards a brighter future.
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Give a gift of school uniform to bless children in Kolkata this year. It’s a great alternative gift with real impact.
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