Fatima* was only six years old when she was brought into the care of Sahaara’s Krupalay Hostel. She had been living in the red-light area of Ghatkopar, where her mother worked in the sex trade. While her mother was away at work, Fatima was often left alone in unsafe surroundings. The area was filled with strangers and risky situations that no young child should face. With no supervision or learning environment, Fatima had little chance to grow or feel secure.
During one of their field visits, Sahaara’s Pratham staff noticed the dangers Fatima faced. They counselled her mother over many conversations, gently helping her understand the risks. Eventually, her mother agreed to send Fatima to a safer place. In 2023, she was admitted to Krupalay Hostel.
From the start, Krupalay offered more than just a safe roof over Fatima’s head. The hostel provided a calm and caring atmosphere where her needs—emotional, academic, and social—were taken seriously. The staff helped her settle into a structured routine that included healthy meals, rest, school, tuition, and playtime. Each part of her day was designed to encourage her growth and sense of belonging.
Fatima quickly responded to this new environment. She learned personal hygiene, social etiquette, body language, and how to look after her belongings. She received regular mentoring from hostel staff and support from an external counsellor, which helped her understand her feelings and build confidence.
She now studies in Grade 2 and loves going to school. The hostel gave her access to educational resources and a quiet space for homework and reading. Over time, she developed an interest in word puzzles and enjoyed games like UNO and Go Fish with her older sister. She also started colouring, doing art and craft, and playing both indoor and outdoor games.
Fatima’s love for dance began to shine at the hostel, where she had space and encouragement to practise. She choreographed her own steps and participated in the school’s annual day function, performing with joy in the “Little Fairy Dance.” Through such opportunities, Krupalay helped her discover and express her talents.
As Fatima grew, so did her sense of responsibility. She began helping younger children and speaking confidently in group settings. Her teachers praised her good behaviour and dedication, and she was awarded the “Most Disciplined Student” badge in school—an achievement that made her proud and inspired others around her.
Fatima now dreams of becoming a doctor. “I want to become a doctor and help my mummy feel better,” she says. Her mother, who visits regularly, shared, “She looks so happy and confident now. I never imagined this kind of life for her.”
Krupalay Hostel didn’t just give Fatima a place to stay—it gave her room to grow, discover herself, and imagine a better future.
(Names changed to protect identities.)