Second Bridge e.V. Shalimar
Second Bridge e.V. is a non-profit organization that supports children and their families living in the Shalimar slums in the city of Howrah, India. Second Bridge strives to create a safe space for children in the Shalimar slum area where they can learn through play. We help the children discover their potential and encourage them to use it. This way, they can soon experience or rediscover the joy of learning.
The Goal
Second Bridge is fighting to ensure that children from the Shalimar slum find their way – into state schools and the public education system – and into a better life. They should benefit as much as possible from the state programs. We do not aim to establish our own alternative school. Children of primary school age who have never attended school or who – for whatever reason – have dropped out should be able to use this program. It should be an easily accessible program that enables them to learn confidently and experience self-efficacy as a foundation for sustainable positive development. At the same time, their parents should be supported in recognizing the needs and potential of their children.
Shalimar
The Shalimar district lies in the south of the city of Howrah in West Bengal. From here, the Second Bridge leads to the twin city of Kolkata on the other side of the Hoogli River. Day laborers load and unload heavy trucks arriving here day in and day out. Their families live directly under the bridge in extremely difficult, often inhumane conditions. The region has received little attention so far. There are practically no aid programs for the residents.
Our Ethical Principles
Second Bridge is committed to the well-being of children in Shalimar. We want to ensure the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child is upheld there and contribute to the well-being of the entire community. We fight for a just and humane society. Respect for human dignity is the foundation of our work. Social justice, respect for human rights, the promotion of social responsibility, and the protection of minorities are close to our hearts. We utilize the insights of social work, the social sciences and humanities, and the knowledge available locally. We are happy to be part of a network of organizations with similar goals and convictions.
Newsletter
Previous newsletters are available for download.
Download Newsletter 11.2024 – english
Support
- Second Bridge e.V. utilizes local and international resources and supporters.
- Second Bridge e.V. is building a network of donors and supporters – in India and worldwide.
- Second Bridge e.V. strives to use all resources efficiently – to achieve a lot with little. Existing government programs and funds should be acknowledged and utilized – not ignored.