In 2002, Shadhika Foundation seeded the New Light Project in Kalighat, the notorious red-light area in Kolkata. Situated in one of the poorest neighborhoods in the city, New Light aims to educate the children of sex workers. In particular, it seeks to break the cycle of poverty and prostitution for young girls who find themselves in the same profession, after having watched since birth their mothers ply their trade.

From a group of thirty three children at its inception, New Light has grown into an organization that currently supports more than one hundred boys and girls. Operating during “working hours” for mothers in Kalighat, New Light provides educational support, healthcare, nutrition, immunization, computer training and recreational opportunities to kids. Services have been extended to teach sex workers about healthcare and HIV/AIDS care and to help them become functionally literate.

In 2005, New Light started the Soma Home, a shelter to insulate girls from the lives of their mothers. In 2009, New Light added its latest program, Sonar Tori, translated as the ‘golden ferry boat,’ a shelter for older girls, either those who’ve graduated from the Soma Home or have escaped trafficking and now want to build a new life for themselves. Designed for girls over 18 who have finished the first level of education, allows girls a safe haven as they get ready to spread their wings. The shelter can accommodate up to seven girls.

Take the case of Shyamali (not her real name)of Madhya Pradesh, a poor state in Central India. Rescued at the age of twelve from a notorious red-light area and brought into the government’s juvenile justice system, Shyamali was sent to stay at a home for young women in Kolkata. While there, she entered dance-movement therapy to deal with the trauma of rape, beatings, and deprivation, and is now an instructor at a government-run home of girls and young women. Now at 18, she lives at the Sonar Tori, and is also learning tailoring as she hopes to pursue a career in fashion and dress making.

New Light feels privileged to help her rebuild her life.

Photo Galleries
Evening Meal 2006, Early New Light Photos, Children’s Portraits

Website
http://www.newlightindia.org/