Amcha Ghar, meaning “Our
Home” is an India-based NGO
that provides a residential home for orphaned and
semi-orphaned girls from the streets of Mumbai. More
than a decade ago, founders Susheela Singh and Anthony
Dias rescued a sexually exploited girl from the Mumbai
Streets, only to discover that no institutions
would take her because she was not an orphan. They
realized that no home catered to semi-orphan girl
children or to those living in vulnerable situations.
The girls were denied admission in homes if they had
a single parent, despite the fact that the single
parent often worked all day, leaving the girl to fend
for herself or placing her in the care of sexually,
physically, or emotionally abusive relatives. After
witnessing such helplessness, Ms. Singh and
Mr. Dias were inspired to form a unique organization
that would serve those living in such situations.
On April 14, 1996 in Uttan
village at Bhayander, a
committed team of social workers, attorneys, doctors,
and well-wishers joined Ms. Singh
and Mr. Dias to give birth to Amcha
Ghar.
Amcha Ghar focuses on early intervention,
rescuing and rehabilitating young girls from the streets.
When possible, Amcha Ghar also provides counseling
and economic guidance to girls’ parents or relatives,
with the ultimate aim of stabilizing the family environment
and improving economic status so girls can be re-united
with their families.
An identity of self-worth and acceptance is instilled
in each child through the healthy, family environment
at the Amcha Ghar Home. Amcha Ghar
now encompasses not only a Residential Home in the
village of Uttan, but also an Extension Home for older
residents who are working and pursuing higher studies
in Bhayander. Amcha Ghar School provides English Medium
formal education for younger beneficiaries as well
as children of fisher folk families. The demeanor
and discipline of Amcha Ghar girls
have earned them a respected reputation in both Uttan
and Mumbai. Amcha Ghar strives to
produce self-sufficient, empowered young women who
can succeed in today’s fast-paced and competitive
world.
