HOPE for a Better Tomorrow: Improving Child Health in Urban Slums

Mukti, in collaboration with “Children International”, has launched a new project named HOPE (Health, Opportunity, Protection, and Empowerment) for Children’s well-being. This comprehensive initiative aims to improve the health and well-being of highly vulnerable children and adolescents aged 4 to 18 years in the urban slum areas of Narkeldanga, Kolkata.

The objective of the project is to implement a holistic approach to enhance child health and hygiene by increasing awareness, education, and empowerment of children and their families, strengthening community support systems, and improving coordination among local healthcare providers.

On May 16, 2024, Mukti kicked off the first session, which included Health and Hygiene Storytime sessions on topics such as dental hygiene, healthy eating, personal hygiene, sanitation, nutrition, the 5-step handwashing process, and safe drinking water. Gradually, sessions for caregivers will also be conducted, covering topics such as sanitation, non-fire cooking, iron deficiency training, the 5-step handwashing process, safe drinking water, and interactive handwashing demonstrations for children aged 5.

These sessions will continue until June, during which 233 children (aged 4 – 43 children and aged 5 – 190 children) will be educated on health, hygiene, and handwashing. At the end of the sessions, hygiene kits will be distributed among the children.

With a focus on empowerment, collaboration, and advocacy, Mukti’s initiative seeks to create a safer, healthier, and more nurturing environment where children can thrive and fulfill their potential.

Gallery link: https://muktiweb.org/gallery/album/hope-mukti-s-child-health-program-in-urban-slums