Overcoming Challenges & Moving Forward!

Written by Samiur Rahman and Elizabeth Henschel, edited by Heiko Schrader

As you all are aware that Hope had suffered a major loss in terms of financial and programmatic due to the flood situation in June, we are happy to inform you that we have been able to resume all the activities. Renovations are in the process. This would not have been possible without your generosity. We remain thankful to you for your invaluable contribution and support.

The construction of kids in nature in Sawai Madhopur has faced significant delays due to persistent heavy rainfall throughout June, July, and August. The monsoon season brought continuous downpours, which disrupted the schedule and slowed down the pace of work considerably. The wet conditions have made it challenging to maintain a steady workflow, causing issues with site access, material handling, and construction safety. As a result, the project‘s overall progress has been reduced, extending the expected timeline for completion and impacting plans for making this operational for children.

As we reflect on the past six months, we’re thrilled to share the strides we‘ve made together in education, health, and livelihood initiatives. Through dedication and collaboration, our programs continue to empower individual beneficiaries in specific and communities in general. From breaking down barriers in education and opening doors for new horizons to our health initiatives tackling critical issues with life-saving treatments and awareness efforts while our livelihood programs equipping families with sustainable skills for financial independence, each of our achievement represents a step toward a brighter, healthier future for those we serve.

Fighting Tuberculosis in Our Community

Health has remained a priority, with a special focus to combat tuberculosis (TB) in the communities we serve. Our health team works diligently to provide ongoing care, treatment, and education on TB prevention and recovery. We currently support 15 families who have a member with pulmonary TB, offering treatment and assistance. In addition, we provide ration supplies to 15 needy patients, ensuring they receive the necessary nutrition to support their recovery. As a result of our consistent support, averages of 3-4 patients complete their treatment and recover fully each month.

Through partnerships with organizations like the Clinton Foundation, we conducted free X-ray screenings for 158 community members in this period, identifying 5 new TB cases who are now receiving treatment. Additionally, we organize at least two TB awareness programs each month to educate the community on TB prevention, early symptoms, and available treatments and resources helping to break the cycle of stigma surrounding the disease.

A Milestone in Education

Photo: Pre-primary school kids taught by Expedia Inc. volunteer

Our Hope Non-Formal School continues to grow, with 26 and 21 enrollments in X and XII respectively for the year. It’s inspiring to see the legacy of learning growing – many of our past students are now pursuing higher education breaking new ground for themselves and their families. Currently, 10 students have enrolled in bachelor’s programs through School of Open Learning (SOL) and IGNOU and 1 through Janki Devi Memorial College, a premier women’s college of the University of Delhi. Other 8 are embracing professional courses in Law, Nursing, and Fashion Designing through ITI. Additionally, beneficiaries from our Youth Forum and former students have entered the workforce, building careers in sectors ranging from data entry operator to healthcare proving the power of education in transforming lives.

To support their educational journey, we’ve provided financial aid to students and alumni facing economic challenges. Through these efforts, we continue to empower individuals with tools for self-sufficiency and personal growth.

Determination Leads to Success

Photo: Abdullah

In the bustling lanes of Nizamuddin Basti, where resilience meets tradition, we met Abdullah — a young man with boundless determination who joined Hope during a time of uncertainty and change. Amid the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Abdullah came to us, not just with aspirations of learning computer skills but with a deep resolve to help his family rise above difficult circumstances. His father, once the backbone of the household, couldn’t work due to persistent knee pain. His brother is now the only bread-winner. His sister, eager to support the family, had taken up stitching, a skill she honed with the same drive Abdullah showed in his studies.

Abdullah later began attending our English classes. Although he struggled with English at first, he attended every session, his eyes filled with determination. Over time, the English language, which once felt like a barrier, became a stepping stone to confidence and self-expression.

As his proficiency grew, Abdullah took a bold step and applied for the CUET (Common University Entrance Test), hoping to gain admission to a reputable college. When he passed the entrance and secured a place in the BA English Honors program at Khalsa College, Delhi University, we knew that this was a turning point—not just for Abdullah but for his entire family. It was a moment of pride and validation for all of us at Hope.

Photo: Abdullah teaching English class

Today, Abdullah comes to Hope in Evening Education Program to teach English to young adults & children from the basti. Seeing him confidently lead a classroom, using the very skills he once struggled with, inspires us every day. Abdullah’s journey from a student to a mentor embodies the resilience, growth, and community spirit that Hope strives to foster.

We are proud of Abdullah — proud of his achievements and of the example he sets for others in the community.

His story reminds us why we exist, and it reinforces our commitment to empowering individuals, even in the most challenging times. Abdullah represents the promise of a brighter future, not just for himself but for every child who walks through Hope’s doors, dreaming of a life filled with possibilities.