During a recent trip to India my wife Carol and I visited my brother Ian and his wife Anne in Kolkata, where for many years they have worked for and supported a local charity, the Kolkata Emmanuel School.

During our trip we had witnessed the abject poverty many have to
endure but we were not prepared for our visit to the heart of the Kolkata slums.The area is home to the poorest and most vulnerable children of Kolkata. Deprived of basic resources, many are left alone or abandoned to survive, at risk of abuse and exploitation. 

The Kolkata Emmanuel School was established in 1978 by an amazing couple, Vijayan and Premila Pavamani, who created a classroom in the back room of a dilapidated building for 9 local street children. Their vision was to provide an opportunity for these children to emerge from their slum conditions. 

The school is now home to over 450 children, who each day are provided with a uniform, nutritious meals, medical care and
most importantly a full education. From such an improbable background they achieve incredible results.

This year I decided to return to Kolkata with my daughter Kerry, who is a teacher at Rockingham Primary School, Corby in Northamptonshire. Our purpose was to try and develop a relationship with the Emmanuel School, creating cultural and educational links, and to also offer financial support.

Although sadly Vijayan has passed away we were very honoured to meet with Premila who has continued as rector of the charity. We discussed how we might provide some support and identified what we believe is a very worthwhile project. The school kitchen is in desperate need of refurbishment, with the cost involved significant against stretched means which by necessity are concentrated on teaching resources.

Depending on the sum we can raise we would like to improve the kitchen facilities and dining area, which is also doubles as the stage for school assemblies and presentations.

If you feel that you are able to support this hugely worthwhile cause then any donation would be very much appreciated.

Many thanks, 

Mike.