Mridula is growing academically, socially, and emotionally

Children in red light areas live in severe physical and psychological peril and are vulnerable to abuse, trauma and second generation prostitution. Perishing in hunger, neglect, illiteracy and hopelessness, these daughters long for the day their childhood would be theirs again.

Six year-old Mridula*’s mother was a victim of the sex trade and worked inthe Bhandup red light area of Mumbai, India. Sahaara staff met the mother for the first time in around 2006 and counseled her to exit the trade and start a new life. In 2009, Mridula’s mother exited the trade with Sahaara’s help and was referred to a rehabilitation home in Pune. Simultaneously, Mridula was brought to Anandalay, ­ a shelter home run by Sahaara for daughters of trafficked women. At Anandalay, these children are brought up by house-parents in a loving and conducive family environment. Mridula was welcomed into Anandalay on 20^th March 2009.

Anandalay staff provide Mridula English medium schooling in one of the top schools in the locality, quality accommodation and wholesome nutrition within a loving family environment afforded by dedicated house parents.

Mridula was a slow learner, withdrawn and very passive by nature upon arrival. Over the years, there has been a turnaround in her social and academic skills; she has become expressive, smiling, talkative, and interactive. She has blossomed into an extrovert, is proactive in making friends, and has shown significant improvement in her grades.

Your generous donations will enable Sahaara to provide fresh and nutritious meals to Mridula, thereby ensuring that she remains healthy and continues doing well in her studies.