After School Programme for Underserved Children

Dear Maitri Friend, 

Our world is home to 1.8 billion young people and the youth population is growing fastest in the poorest of nations (UNFPA, state of world population). In fact, never before have there been so many young people and never again is there likely to be such potential for economic and social progress. There fore education is critical to define our common future. 

To meet the needs and aspirations of underserved children in Delhi Maitri started its after school programme in February 2008. Since then the organization has supported and mentored close to 1000 children who were deprived of standard education, school activities and tuition support. Maitri has been providing these children from local slums with education through subjects like English, Maths and Science. It is our endeavor to increase skills and knowledge of these children and enable them to become innovators, thinkers and problem-solvers.

Maitri is currently empowering children with knowledge about hygiene and hygienic living while they are also given opportunities to develop their skills in art and music. Children who are in senior school are supported with career counseling, helping them make a healthy transition from adolescence to adulthood to expand their future. 

Since December 2014, Maitri has engaged with 100 students with supportive education under the guidance of four educators.  More over,  we have strategically initiated a basic computer programme since January 2015 for underserved children to teach them the basics in computers and to learn its functions. The main focus is to equip students  with computer literacy which will help them in the essentials of today's tech world to pursue careers in the future. Towards this effort Maitri has been able to procure 6 computers and have children be trained in different groups twice a week. In addition, 100 young girls and women are enrolled in Maitri's s empowerment program in designing and tailoring course since September 2014. This course in skill building encourages them to be self sustained and pursue self employment opportunities.  Finally, all students attending Maitri's after school programme are provided with a milk drink, fruits and biscuits to improve their health and to ensure zero drop out rate.

Mahima's story is one remarkable example of impact: 

"I study in 6th class and have been a part of Maitri's programme for four years.  I have a younger brother and two older sisters.  My father works as a security guard and my mother works as a cook in homes. Maitri has given me the self-confidence and the skill to interact with people and to also engage in public speaking. I have learnt this by taking part in cultural activities.  I used to get very nervous before but the teachers at Maitri have encouraged and helped me learn. The teachers have also helped me to improve my reading skills and work on subjects that I find difficult in school.  I enjoy this because at my school the teacher does not have time to help all the students.  I’m lucky that Maitri provides me with an environment to study because I don’t have that at home as our house is small and very noisy. Also, my parents are not educated because of which they are not able to help me with my studies. Someday, I want to become a doctor.  I know that it will be difficult but because of my hard work and with Maitri's support I believe I will be able to do it!"

With a busy family life and an overcrowded school, it can be difficult for a student to devote proper time and attention to schoolwork. Without proper guidance and encouragement they can lose interest and also drop out of school.

Mahima has been part of Maitri's programme right from the day Maitri started the supportive programme, to get the extra help with her schoolwork. This has given her the chance to have the standard of education she should have, to give her  and children like her an opportunity to get an education they deserve that will enable them to stand on their feet. More over, being with Maitri has brought about a sense of confidence, dignity and values in life to all students. 

On behalf of the organization, I would love to tell you how important your role has been in helping us empower such Mahimas in Delhi, India. The contribution that you continue to invest in the lives of these underserved children will not only give them a broader opportunity to learn and but also enable us to take care of their growth and development.