CRS works in partnership with neighbourhood organisations. These organisations provide premises while CRS funds and staffs programmes for the community. However, many of the buildings are either small or in poor condition. Over the years, CRS has supported infrastructure improvements through special fundraising. Different centres have received brick walls, new floors and flushable toilets.
In April, Jono Marcus took part in the 10k Mercy4Mankind run in Hyde Park, London. The aim was to raise money for CRS, specifically to replace the damaged roof of Mullajan Welfare Society in Bibibagan. The new roof is now complete. Inside, children from the surrounding slums can once again attend a school run by CRS both in safety and protected from the monsoon rains.
At the end of July, CRS teamed up with Netaji Eye Hospital to hold an eye camp at Basanti Devi Colony School in Kolkata. The CRS health team visited the neighbourhood in advance to inform the community about the free check-ups available. On the day, 87 people had their eyes checked. Eight people were identified as needing a cataract operation while 25 people were prescribed spectacles. Treatment and medicines were given free of charge thanks to the event’s sponsorship by Larsen & Turbo, an Indian engineering company.