The shelter operates in a permanent structure above a temple 24 hours a day, seven days per week. It is also used as a drop-in center for all of the children of the community who can come anytime to play with the toys, read, work on the computer or simply relax after a hard day outside.
LEGAL AID
New Light conducts free legal aid clinic for the women of the community twice a week that is attended by a lady lawyer. The main objective of this clinic is to establish conviction of traffickers who operate in this area. This activity is supported by The DayWalka Foundation, USA.
DALIT SHELTER
A multi-functional centre has been started for the children of the Dalit. This is a caste that has traditionally be marked as untouchable because they take care of burning the dead bodies. There are 35 students at the new centre with two teachers and two caretakers. The children of this center avail of the same services that are provided to the children at the creche cum night shelter.
Our Programs
CRECHE
This is the first crèche operating in a red light area that takes children as young as 3 months old. The strength of New Light lies on its operational timing as it provides the sex worker mothers an opportunity to keep their young kids in safe custody of the caretakers. 25 young girls at risk of being abused use the creche as a safe shelter overnight.
EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
Pre-school, primary, secondary and higher education is provided to all the children. Additional English and other foreign language training is available for kids above the age of ten. The kids are also being coached in blog writing. Four experienced teachers help with their school work with special emphasis on mathematics and the sciences.
SOMA HOME
In July 2005 New Light started a residential facility for young girls at risk. This was a neccessary to protect the girls from being abused and trafficked. The home was called Soma after one of the young girls who died an untimely death due to lack of medical attention.
RECREATIONAL FACILITIES
Most of the children had never held a new or unbroken toy in their hands. The center is the only place where they can play and enjoy activities that other children of their age take part in. Music, art, classical dance and yoga lessons are regularly offered. Workshops on painting are also held regularly.
HEALTH CARE
All children have been vaccinated for Hepatitis B, MMR vaccine and other medical expenses are sponsored as needed. New Light Clinic is operational five days a week with visits by a general practitioner, a pediatrician and a gynecologist. Six health workers/peer educators are avaible to provide emergency medical care to the mothers and the children of the area round the clock.
MICROCREDIT A group of women have been given small loans to start their own enterprises. Their businesses include flower garland vending, ready-made garments, food stall & auto-rickshaw hire. The response to this has been very positive encouraging more women to join in self-help groups.
NUTRITION
All children attending the centre get a wholesome meal at night. The menu is different for each night of the week.They are also given daily mid morning refreshments. Some children with special nutritional requirements are provided with lunch regularly
