Samir is a 7-year-old boy who was living in Diva, a suburb in the Thane district, located on the outskirts of Mumbai, with his mother and elder brother. Life at home was very difficult for him. His mother had left her husband due to abuse and, with no other means to support her children, she started working in the sex trade. Samir and his brother were often left alone at home without anyone to care for them. There was no routine or guidance. This made Samir feel unsafe and unsure of himself. He didn’t have a proper place to study, eat, or play. As a result, he became emotionally unsettled and often behaved in ways that showed he needed more attention and care.
In 2024, a parent from the community whose child is in Sahaara’s Krupalay Hostel (for girls aged 6 to 12) told Samir’s mother about Sahaara’s Mahima Boys’ Hostel. She met the team and, hoping for a better future, enrolled both her sons. At the hostel, Samir was given a safe and clean place to stay, along with healthy food, clothing, and medical care. He joined an English-medium school and also received extra help through remedial classes. He took part in counselling, life skills sessions, and different creative and outdoor activities that gave him new ways to express himself and build confidence.
In the beginning, adjusting to hostel life was not easy for Samir. He would cry often, refused to follow rules, and found it difficult to play with other children. He would sometimes throw things when he was upset or frustrated. The staff noticed that he needed emotional support and gently worked with him every day. Through steady routines and kind guidance, they helped Samir feel safe and slowly build trust. He started opening up, listening to instructions, and making friends. His schoolwork began to improve, and he started taking part in activities with excitement.
For his mother, the hostel brought peace of mind. She stayed connected through regular calls and visits, and she was happy to see her son become calmer and more confident. “I never imagined this kind of future for my son,” she said. “Thanks to Sahaara, he now has a chance to learn, grow, and dream.”
Samir now enjoys reading, playing outside, and being part of group sessions. He continues to grow in his studies and is doing well in Grade 1. He has made good friends at the hostel and is close to his brother. He often talks about becoming a soldier one day. He says, “I like Mahima hostel very much. I get to study, play, and live with many friends. Uncle (Superintendent) and Bhaiyas (Wardens) help me when I feel sad or sick.”
The changes in Samir’s life have also given his mother hope. She now believes that with support, both she and her sons can move towards a better future.
(Names changed to protect identities.)