The UMEED programme plays a pivotal role in supporting orphaned, abandoned, and surrendered children with special needs who live on the streets or in the Kolkata slums.
The initiative focuses on rehabilitating these children by providing life skills and developmental support, helping to transition them into families or care organisations where they can thrive.
The grant was made possible through a nomination by Lavinia Higginson, who is a long-standing supporter of HOPE and a member of The Mercers’ Company.
Lavinia shared: "I lived in Kolkata until I was 16 so it has always held a very special place in my heart. I am fortunate to be a member of the Mercers' Company – a city livery company – that gives away £10 million in charitable donations every year and encourages its members to donate on their behalf to charities that are close to their hearts. HOPE absolutely filled that criteria."
Why this initiative matters
The UMEED programme is currently supporting 31 children aged between two and six years of age. These children, many of whom were orphaned, abandoned, or surrendered by family members, are provided with essential care and developmental support. The programme is committed to reaching more children with special needs from Kolkata’s streets and slums.
Children enrolled in the UMEED project will:
be provided with a caring and safe environment
be taught language, cognitive skills and other aspects of brain development
improve their self-help skills
improve their social and fine motor skills
This vital funding will allow HOPE UK to continue its mission of giving every child a chance at a better future.