Shelter for Urban Homeless in Kolkata: How compassionate endeavors by foundations help solve crises

In a bustling city like Kolkata, where life is constantly on the move, there exists a significant population that often goes unnoticed and neglected – the urban homeless. However, amidst the chaos, there is a ray of hope, and it comes in the form of several self-less Foundations, non-governmental and non-profit organizations committed to uplifting the weaker and disadvantaged sections of society. Foundation's with vision to shape a better future for the coming generations and to bring smiles to the faces of the underprivileged, homeless, and neglected populations of the city.

The rapid urbanization of Kolkata has led to a significant increase in the number of urban homeless individuals living on the fringes of the city. These vulnerable souls often struggle to find basic necessities like food, shelter, and healthcare. A survey done in 2018, found that there were about 7,200 homeless people in Kolkata. The number is likely to have gone up since, especially after the Covid pandemic. As per the Commissioners of the Supreme Court, 1 percent of the urban population in cities is homeless.

But what is the Shelter for Urban Homeless?

As the name suggests, this is a scheme that seeks to provide shelter to the urban poor. SUH is a sub-scheme under Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Urban Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NULM). The scheme guidelines mention the following provisions:

• All weather permanent shelters will be open for 24 hours.
• Permanent community centre for at least 100 people for every 1 lakh population.
• Each one should cater to 50-100 persons depending on local conditions.

During an internship as a student, the author had the opportunity to visit two urban shelters for homeless people, each of which is a testament to Maya Foundation's dedication. The first shelter, "Shelter for Urban Homeless Females," was organized in association with the Department of Women & Child and Social Welfare. It has been operational since April 30, 2012, and has a capacity for 56 beneficiaries. The shelter offers basic facilities, including full-time security, water supply, and sanitation, ensuring that the women staying there do not face any hardships. It also provides amenities such as a television set for their entertainment.

The foundation encourages students to conducted sessions on cleanliness, menstrual hygiene, and personal care, interact with each woman to understand the difficulties they faced before arriving at the shelter. Their stories as explained by the author are heart-wrenching, with life on the streets being miserable and terrifying. However, since finding solace at the shelter home, they expressed their gratitude towards such Foundations and teams for helping them during their most challenging times.

Another shelter, "Shelter for Urban Homeless in Kalighat," is run by Maya Foundation in collaboration with the Kolkata Municipal Corporation and Suda. Established during the first lockdown on March 24, 2020, this shelter accommodates families and individuals and has a capacity for 100 people. Presently, it houses 103 inmates.

The shelter provides nutritious food, electricity, full-time security, water supply, and sanitation, creating a safe and secure environment for those who once lived on the streets.

In addition to the shelter homes, these Foundations support schools that promote education of young girls from underprivileged backgrounds. These Foundations undoubtedly make significant differences in the lives of countless families and women, providing them with a safe haven and a chance to rebuild their lives.

The commitment of such foundations to the cause of the urban homeless in Kolkata serves as an inspiration for all. The organization and such dedication and vision continue to bring hope and positive change to the lives of the most vulnerable in society.

About the Author:

Anam Fatima, a compassionate and dedicated law student from National Law University, Shimla, has always been drawn to the noble cause of social work. Raised in Kolkata and inspired by her father's passion for helping others, Anam eagerly participates in social activities and initiatives that contribute to the betterment of society. During her internship at Maya Foundation, she had the privilege of working on the "Shelter for Urban Homeless People in Kolkata" project, experiencing firsthand the impact of the foundation's compassionate endeavors.

Read her full report here.