Author: Karen Laister

Awareness campaign at Pally Mangal

Funded by Anglian Overseas Aid, CRS conducts new Iron Deficiency Anaemia awareness campaign and blood testing camp at the Pally Mangal Project, with plans to expand the initiative across all project locations.

The initiative focused on educating women, young people, and children about the causes, symptoms, and prevention of anaemia. Health professionals led interactive sessions, highlighting the importance of iron-rich diets using affordable, locally available foods.

Blood tests were carried out to assess haemoglobin levels, and those identified with low levels received counselling, basic medication, and referrals for further treatment were needed.

Well received by the community, the programme is now being scaled up to promote early detection, improve health awareness, and strengthen preventive care across all project areas.

CRS is strengthening the link between nutrition and education across its eight centres by providing monthly nutrition packets to 290 children from underprivileged families. This support helps ensure children receive the nourishment they need to stay healthy and focused in school.

The health team also regularly monitors each child’s height and weight, enabling early identification of any concerns and timely intervention.

This simple initiative is making an impact and improving children’s well-being, increasing school attendance, and reducing dropout rates.

Our jewellery-making initiative organised by Nari Dana is opening doors to livelihood opportunities for women. Through focused, skill-based training, participants learn to create handcrafted jewellery, empowering them to earn a sustainable income with dignity.

One such inspiring journey is that of Sanchita, who was recently inducted into the programme. Beginning with designing and crafting bangles, she is steadily honing her skills while gaining confidence in her abilities. What started as a small step into jewellery-making is now shaping into a promising path toward financial independence.

This opportunity has not only enabled Sanchita to contribute to her family’s well-being but has also strengthened her sense of self-reliance. With each piece she creates, she moves closer to a more secure and hopeful future—one built on skill, resilience, and newfound confidence.

Read more about Sanchita’s story in our Spring 2026 Newsletter.

Piyush Halder, the grandson of one of our long-serving staff members, is a remarkable example of resilience in the face of adversity. From a young age, Piyush has encountered significant personal challenges, including family separation and, more recently, the loss of his mother following a battle with breast cancer.

Despite these hardships and limited financial resources, his family remained steadfast in their commitment to his education. At a critical juncture in his academic journey, the Gabbi Basra Memorial Fund stepped in through our sponsorship programme, providing much-needed support as he entered Class XI.

With this timely assistance, Piyush has been able to continue his studies without interruption. We are pleased to share that he has successfully progressed to Class XII and remains focused and determined to achieve his goals.

As he prepares for the upcoming West Bengal Higher Secondary Examinations, Piyush’s journey stands as a testament to courage, perseverance, and the transformative impact of timely support. His story highlights how targeted interventions can help young individuals overcome adversity and continue striving toward a brighter future.

The Gabbi Basra Bursary funds talented students to access further education and vocational training opportunities