The mission of The We Foundation is to create safe, nurturing, and empowering environments that support health, learning, and growth for everyone. In line with this mission, during 2020-2021, we took on the responsibility of renovating four Anganwadi Centres (AWCs) in North Kolkata. These centers, which are vital to the well-being of the local community, have been transformed into vibrant Early Childhood Development hubs. Through these renovations, we have positively impacted the lives of children, mothers, and adolescent girls, ensuring they receive the care and support they deserve.
The Goal of the Project
The primary goal of this project was to create vibrant, safe, and functional spaces for the communities served by these AWCs. The centers play a critical role as the first point of contact for health, nutrition, and early learning in urban areas. By improving their infrastructure, we aimed to provide a supportive environment that promotes growth, learning, and well-being for children, pregnant women, lactating mothers, and adolescent girls.
Why This Project Was Important
Anganwadi Centres are more than just buildings—they are lifelines for the most vulnerable members of our community. They ensure that:
- Young children (0-6 years) get access to early education, proper nutrition, and a safe space to play and grow.
- Pregnant women receive health advice and proper nutrition for themselves and their babies.
- Lactating mothers get guidance on breastfeeding and postnatal care.
- Adolescent girls have a secure space to learn and discuss topics like health, hygiene, and empowerment.
However, the AWCs in these areas were in poor condition. Cracked walls, leaking roofs, broken toilets, and faded paint made the centers unwelcoming and unsafe. This project aimed to change that by turning these spaces into vibrant hubs where people feel safe, supported, and cared for.
Renovation Work Done
To bring these centers back to life, we carried out extensive renovation work. Each center underwent the following upgrades:
- Replastering the walls to ensure they are sturdy and safe.
- Repairing the roofs to prevent leaks and ensure protection from the elements.
- Constructing and repairing toilets to improve sanitation and hygiene.
- Replacing or repairing doors and windows for safety, ventilation, and proper access.
- Repairing floors to make the centers clean and hazard-free.
- Painting the walls (inside and outside) in bright, cheerful colors to create a welcoming and positive environment.
Who Benefited?
This project was designed to serve the needs of the most marginalized groups in the community. The AWCs now cater to:
- Children aged 0-6 years who benefit from improved nutrition, health checkups, and early education.
- Pregnant women who receive essential health and nutrition guidance.
- Lactating mothers who are supported in postnatal care and breastfeeding practices.
- Out-of-school adolescent girls (10-19 years) who now have a safe space to learn, grow, and discuss important issues.
A Closer Look at the Renovated AWCs
Each of the four centers had unique challenges and needs, which were addressed through targeted renovations. Here’s a closer look at each AWC:
1. AWC #1 (Bagbazar Circle)
- Address: Ahiritola Youth Swimming Club, 16/2A Strand Bank Road, Kolkata.
- Direct Beneficiaries: 44 (including children, pregnant/lactating women, and adolescent girls).
- Impact: This center, which serves children aged 6 months to 6 years, as well as pregnant women and adolescent girls, now provides a safe and welcoming environment.The repaired walls and floors, along with bright colors, have brought new energy to the space.
2. AWC #2 (Bagbazar Circle)
- Address: North Calcutta Bitan Club, 28A Maharani Hemanta Kumari Street, Kolkata.
- Direct Beneficiaries: 42.
- Impact: Structural repairs and a fresh coat of paint have made this center bright and inviting. It now serves as a vibrant hub for the community, helping children and young mothers feel supported and cared for.
3. AWC #3 (Bagbazar Circle)
- Address: Saasco Club, 12A Lock Gate Road, Kolkata.
- Direct Beneficiaries: 114.
- Impact: This center, one of the busiest in the area, underwent significant renovations to accommodate its large number of beneficiaries. Repairs to the roof, floors, and toilets have improved safety and sanitation, while the new colors have added a cheerful atmosphere.
4. AWC #4 (Burtala Circle)
- Address: Bagbazar Uday Sangha, 11 Nayan Krishna Saha Lane, Kolkata.
- Direct Beneficiaries: 55.
- Impact: The upgrades here have turned the center into a model of cleanliness and functionality. It now provides a secure and supportive space for children, mothers, and adolescent girls in the community.
The Bigger Impact
By renovating these four Anganwadi Centres, we have created lasting change in the lives of over 250 people. The children now have safe, clean, and cheerful spaces where they can learn and grow. Pregnant women and new mothers have access to better facilities and support systems. Adolescent girls have a place where they can feel safe and empowered.
The changes go beyond infrastructure. These centers are now symbols of hope and progress in their communities. They show what’s possible when we invest in the well-being of our most vulnerable members.
Feedback from the Community
The response to the renovations has been overwhelmingly positive. Parents have expressed their gratitude for the improved facilities, while community members have praised the bright, welcoming look of the centers. Anganwadi workers have shared how the renovations have made their jobs easier and more fulfilling, as they can now provide services in a safe and comfortable environment.
Looking Ahead
This project is just one example of how The We Foundation is working to build stronger, healthier communities. We are committed to ensuring that every child, mother, and adolescent girl has access to the care and support they need to thrive.
By investing in the renovation of Anganwadi Centres, we are not just fixing buildings—we are building brighter futures. With your support, we can continue to create spaces that inspire growth, learning, and hope for generations to come.