Pedalling Toward a Better Future

Children Lead Bicycle Rally in Kotdwara

This month, students in Kotdwar took to the streets with a simple but powerful message:
’Save Fuel. Save the Environment. Protect Your Health’.

Together with students from Happy Home School and Scholars School, Project Help India organised a community bicycle rally through Kotdwara city to raise awareness about environmental responsibility, healthy living, and the importance of reducing fuel consumption.

Around 50 children participated enthusiastically in the rally, riding through the streets carrying messages encouraging people to think differently about transport, pollution, and caring for the world around them.

The rally was officially flagged off by the Mayor of Kotdwara, Mr. Shailendra Singh Rawat, together with members of the Child Advocacy Team.

Speaking at the event, the Mayor reflected on the growing environmental challenges facing India and encouraged young people to become part of the solution.

He noted that while bicycles were once commonly used throughout India, increasing dependence on motorbikes and cars has contributed significantly to rising pollution levels and fuel consumption.

He also praised the students and Project Help India for helping raise awareness in such a positive and practical way.

For us, events like this are about much more than a bicycle rally.

They are about empowering children to become thoughtful, confident, community-minded young people who understand that even small actions can help create change. As well, it was lots of fun for everyone involved.

Across our centres and programs, we continue encouraging children not only to learn for themselves — but also to become positive voices within their communities.

We are incredibly proud of every student who participated, and proud of our Project Help India family.

Thank you for helping us continue showing up where it matters most.

We Stopped. We Helped. But They Still Need Us

A Little Girl, A Family in Crisis and a Chance to Help

Not often do we ask for help for one individual family’s circumstances. But when we do, it is because the situation is critical.

Earlier this year, Rowena and I travelled through Punjab. We have visited India many times and, over the years, we have witnessed poverty that is hard to put into words. Poverty that is ugly, brutal, exhausting and deeply unfair.

And if we are honest, when you visit the slums year after year, there are moments where you can become a little desensitised. Not because you stop caring, but because the need feels endless.

Then something jolts you awake again.

A dirty child with matted hair kicking a half-flat soccer ball through dust.
A mother bathing her baby beside a sewer drain.
An elderly woman stirring a meal over a fire fuelled by burning rubbish and plastic.
A family of six sleeping in a single room with a dirt floor and plastic sheets for roofing.

Those moments stay with you.

And this family stayed with us.

Their names are Priya, her mother Kamaljeet, her siblings and grandmother. We met Priya in early March, and after hearing her story, we could not walk away without helping.

This Beautiful Family is Carrying So Much

Priya is just ten years old and currently in Class 5. She is bright, eager to learn and full of quiet determination. Her teachers describe her as hardworking, mature and responsible beyond her years.

But behind her gentle smile is a heartbreaking story.

Earlier this year, Priya’s father died suddenly after years of alcohol addiction. His passing left the family devastated emotionally and financially.

Now the entire burden of supporting the household falls on Priya’s mother, who works as a domestic helper cleaning other people’s homes. One of Priya’s older sisters works alongside her to help the family survive.

As if that were not enough, Priya’s grandmother recently fractured her arm and is unable to work or help around the home.

The family’s living conditions are extremely poor. Daily life is uncertain and difficult. Yet despite everything, they remain kind, gracious and deeply grateful.

They do not ask for anything.

That is what makes this so hard.

Why We Are Asking for Help

When we first met this family, we provided emergency rations and simple food supplies to help them get through those first difficult months.

But we have since learned that their situation has not improved.

And it likely will not improve until the grandmother is able to recover and return to work.

This is where we are hoping our beautiful community might step in.

For just 2500 rupees a month, which is approximately $36 AUD, this family can receive practical support that will help them survive this incredibly difficult season.

Ideally, we are hoping to find sponsors willing to commit to 12 months of support.

A full year sponsorship is approximately $450 AUD.

That amount helps provide food, essentials, stability and hope.

Sometimes numbers can feel small on paper. But in places like this, small acts of generosity change everything.

The Reality We Cannot Ignore

It is easy to scroll past suffering when it feels far away.

But this little girl is real.
This family is real.
Their grief is real.
Their hunger and uncertainty are real.

And yet so is their courage.

Priya continues showing up to school and attending her tuition centre despite carrying enormous emotional pain and stress. Her teachers say she still dreams of a better future.

There is something incredibly humbling about people who have so little and still smile warmly, still welcome strangers kindly, still hold onto hope, and yet never ask for help even when their need is so great.

We often talk about wanting to make a difference in the world. Sometimes that difference is not complicated.

Sometimes it simply looks like stopping.
Seeing.
Caring.
And choosing not to walk away.

Can You Help?

We know times are hard for many people right now, and we never take generosity lightly.

But if you are in a position to help, even in a small way, we would be incredibly grateful.

Whether you sponsor one month, contribute toward a full year, or simply share this story with others, every act of kindness matters.

Because behind every statistic is a child.
A mother.
A grandmother.
A family trying to survive.

And sometimes the greatest gift we can give another human being is the reminder that they have not been forgotten.

Thank you for reading.
Thank you for caring.
And thank you for helping us wrap around this beautiful family with dignity, compassion and hope. If you can make a donation please do so by clicking the DONATE box at the top of this page

With love,

The Project Team

We Are Seeing More Than We Did Before

Project Help India Director Amit Samuel (4th from the left) meeting with police, educators, and community leaders in Kotdwara as a new Child Protection & Advocacy Task Force begins responding to vulnerable children at risk of exploitation, substance abuse, and trafficking.

On the Ground

Across the communities where Project Help India works, we are continually reminded of both the beauty and the complexity of this work.

Every day, our teams spend time with children in our centres, visit families, support vulnerable communities, and continue building relationships that have grown through trust and consistency over many years.

But increasingly, we are also seeing something else.

Something harder to ignore.

In recent conversations with local police and community leaders, we are increasingly hearing about children at significant risk of harm — children living on the streets, disengaged from education, and vulnerable to exploitation.

Some are using substances at a very young age.
Some are being influenced or controlled by others.
Some are simply trying to survive.

These are not always the stories that are easy to tell.

But they are real.

And they are becoming more visible.

Last month, our Director met with the Anti-Human Trafficking Police Unit in Kotdwara, alongside government officials and community representatives. Together, they discussed the growing need to better identify, support, and protect vulnerable children.

What became clear is this:

While efforts are being made, there are still significant gaps — and often very few people willing or able to stand alongside police and local authorities as they respond with limited resources.

Children are being rescued — but often there is nowhere safe for them to go.

Families are struggling — but have limited support.

Communities are sometimes aware, yet also accepting or uncertain about how to respond, often lacking both resources and support themselves.

And so, as an organisation, we are continuing to listen, to learn, and to consider what role we can play.

Because for us, this work is not about reacting once.

It is about continuing to show up — in simple, practical ways like helping with resources, giving school and community talks, and reaching out to vulnerable children and their families, through to longer-term advocacy and strategic planning.

Just over the past two weeks, we have:

• Worked with police and local schools in response to a series of tragic drug-related deaths involving teenagers in the community

• Worked alongside police to identify and support 12 highly vulnerable street children (aged 12 and under), many living in extreme poverty and at significant risk

• Spent time planning and organising our limited resources for what needs to be done next — and this is where we will need your help

In the coming month, we’ll be sharing more about what we are seeing, and how we are responding — particularly in the area of child advocacy and protection.

Thank you for continuing to stand with us — and for helping us keep showing up.

A Mother’s Day Tribute to the Women Who Shape Our World

This Mother’s Day, we pause with gratitude and admiration for the incredible women who make up the heart of Project Help India — from our dedicated team members and supporters around the world to those here in India who are part of our PHI family. Together, your compassion, strength, and care continue to uplift lives and bring hope to countless communities.

To every teacher, director, administrator, caregiver, volunteer, sister, aunt, neighbour, and mother — thank you. Through the sacrifices you make and the countless ways you show up for others each day, you impact lives more deeply than words can express. So often, these acts of love go unnoticed, unappreciated, and without thanks — yet you continue anyway, reflecting the beauty of God’s unconditional love through your compassion, strength, and selflessness.

Across our centres, Mother’s Day has been celebrated with warmth, joy, and heartfelt emotion. The children lovingly created handmade greeting cards for their mothers, pouring their creativity and affection into every colour and message. Along with chocolates and sweet smiles, these gifts became powerful expressions of love.

For many mothers, the moment was deeply emotional. Seeing their children proudly present cards made with their own hands filled the rooms with happiness and tears of joy. Project Help India was also delighted to share small gifts with the mothers as a token of appreciation and respect.

At our Disability Centre, mothers received special gifts — beautiful ladies’ suits (see image below) — offered as a gesture of encouragement and gratitude. The smiles on their faces reminded us how meaningful simple acts of care and recognition can be.

Many mothers shared that participating in these celebrations brought them peace, happiness, and a sense of belonging. These moments are a beautiful reminder that love, dignity, and appreciation can brighten lives and strengthen communities.

Today, and every day, we celebrate the women who nurture hope, guide the next generation, and inspire compassion through their everyday actions.

Happy Mother’s Day from all of us at Project Help India. Your love makes the world kinder, stronger, and more beautiful.

Showing up for Rishabh

A little boy’s accident - and how we stepped in when it mattered most

Sometimes, showing up means being there in a moment of sudden need.

Rishabh is just six years old and has been attending our Bijnor centre for the past six months. Like many children in our programs, he was beginning to find joy in learning and a sense of belonging.

Recently, Rishabh was involved in a serious road accident while crossing the street. He suffered a broken shoulder, injuries inside his mouth, and damage to his front teeth. Since then, he has struggled to eat and is in significant discomfort.

At home, the situation is difficult. His mother is deeply worried, with very limited financial means to support his treatment.

When we heard, we responded.

Project Help India was able to provide ₹20,000 (approximately $350 AUD) for immediate medical care - ensuring Rishabh could receive urgent treatment without delay.

However, his recovery will take time, and significant, costly further medical support will be needed.

For now, we simply ask that you keep Rishabh in your prayers.

Because sometimes, showing up means standing with a child and his family - ensuring they are not alone in their most difficult moments.

Young Voices for the Earth

Students Lead Change in Kotdwara

Last week, on Wednesday 22nd April, in the heart of Kotdwara’s bustling Jhanda Chowk, something powerful happened.

Children from Project Help India’s slum and city centres stepped into the streets—not as bystanders, but as changemakers.

Marking Earth Day, they performed a street play that stopped people in their tracks. With handmade signs reading “Save Water,” “Save Fuel,” “Save Trees,” and “Save Earth,” these young students raised their voices to highlight an urgent message: the need to protect the resources we so often take for granted.

Through their performance, they drew attention to the growing crisis around fuel consumption—petrol, diesel, and cooking gas—and the importance of using these wisely, especially in times of scarcity.

But what made this moment truly special was not just the message—it was who delivered it.

These are children from some of the most underserved communities. And yet, here they were—confident, informed, and standing in the public square, educating others.

Local leaders stood alongside them, including Kotdwara’s Mayor, Mr. Shailendra Rawat, along with representatives from the police and fire services.

As the Mayor shared:
“In Kotdwara and across the Garhwal region, I have only seen Project Help working so consistently in raising awareness and uplifting poor children and women.”

Other community leaders, the police and fire-brigade, echoed this appreciation, recognising the important role Project Help India plays -not only in education, but in strengthening the wider community.

This is what education looks like in action ….It’s not just about learning in a classroom -it’s about equipping the next generation with the confidence, knowledge, and purpose to give back. To lead. To care.

And on Earth Day, these children did exactly that.

They reminded a busy town, and all of us, that change doesn’t always start with those in power.

Sometimes, it starts with a child holding a sign… and the courage to be heard.

We are deeply grateful to our Director, Amit Samuel, and to our dedicated teachers who made this activity possible. We also thank our local community leaders who showed up in support - standing alongside these children and amplifying their voices.

Because where we show up matters.

Listening, Learning, and Acting for Our 14 Centres

On our recent trip we had the privilege of visiting all 14 of our educational centres across India. From Punjab to Kotdwara, Bijnor, and the Jungle villages, we sat with teachers, met students, talked with many parents, and witnessed firsthand the quiet, powerful work happening each day.

But more importantly -we listened.

Each year, our staff gatherings are a highlight. Teachers share stories of individual children, the realities of their communities, and the challenges they face daily. This year, those conversations went deeper. Together, we spoke about student wellbeing, safety, and what children truly need -not just to attend school, but to thrive.

What emerged was both simple and urgent.

Children need spaces that are safe, engaging, and equipped for learning and play.

In many of these communities, barriers to education remain high. Poverty, distance, safety concerns, and lack of resources all play a role. Yet, our centres continue to be places of hope—where children come not only to learn, but to belong.

But the reality is stark.

In some centres, even sitting through a lesson in 50-degree heat becomes a daily challenge. Some classes are held outdoors, where without shade or cooling structures, extreme summer temperatures and monsoon rains leave us with no option but to cancel lessons altogether.

The needs identified by our teachers reflect this:

• Play & Development: sports kits, games, puzzles, and creative materials

• Disability Support: sensory tools, writing pads, and basic care items

• Infrastructure & Safety: roof repairs, a secure door, hut reconstruction

• Essential Equipment: classroom furniture, storage, water access, and fans to help children endure extreme heat

Some needs are urgent - like critical repairs to ensure children can learn safely. Others, like games and sports equipment, may seem small - but are vital for a child’s development, joy, and sense of belonging.

Across all centres, the total need is approximately $5,000 AUD.

This is where we ask for your help.

We have listened to our teachers. We have seen the need with our own eyes. And we have made a commitment to respond.

Now, we invite you to be part of that response.

Your support will directly equip these 14 centres - creating safer environments, restoring dignity, and giving children the tools they need not just to attend school, but to flourish.

Because where we show up matters.
And together, we can show up where it’s needed most.

Love Brings Life and Hope

Kids whose lives are being changed

Easter reminds us of a simple but powerful truth -where there is love, there is life. And where there is life, there is hope.

This is not just something we believe -it is something we see.

At the heart of Project Help India is a commitment to walk alongside children who are marginalised, often overlooked, and living in some of the most difficult conditions imaginable. Children who, without intervention, would have little or no access to education, support, or opportunity.

And yet, when love is shown -consistently, patiently, and intentionally—something begins to change.

Confidence grows. Hope is restored. Possibility begins to take shape.

Here are four children whose lives - and futures—are being transformed.

Himanshu — A life being redirected

Himanshu, aged seven, came to our slum centre with no ability to read or write. His behaviour was difficult—he often fought with other children and used inappropriate language, shaped by the environment around him.

Today, there has been a remarkable transformation. Himanshu is now learning to write, engaging positively with others, and responding to structure and care.

His family continues to face significant challenges, including financial hardship and health issues, but the stability and support he receives at the centre are helping to redirect his path. What could have continued as a cycle of disadvantage is now becoming a story of change and hope.

Shabuna — Finding her voice

Shabuna is seven years old and comes from a rural community where access to education is extremely limited. When she first began attending our centre, she struggled to speak clearly and had little confidence in communicating.

Over the past six months, through patient encouragement and consistent support, Shabuna has begun to find her voice. She is now speaking more clearly, engaging in learning, and even developing habits of reading at home. Her family has noticed the change - not just in her ability, but in her confidence and awareness.

What was once a quiet, withdrawn child is now growing into a young girl with a voice, a love of learning, and a future filled with possibility.

Ritu — Growing in confidence

Ritu is a teenager living in a slum community, where her family faces significant financial hardship. Her father works as a labourer, and the family lives in a small, makeshift home with very limited facilities.

Despite these challenges, Ritu has been attending our centre for several years. Here, she has found not only academic support, but encouragement and belief in her ability. With guidance, her confidence has grown, and even her mother has begun to see her potential differently.

Ritu is now motivated to continue her education, something that once felt uncertain, and is beginning to imagine a future beyond the limitations of her circumstances.

Rudra — A place to belong

Rudra is just four years old, growing up in a family facing extreme hardship. Living in a small, overcrowded space and dealing with legal and financial pressures, his family struggles to meet even basic needs, including regular meals and access to education.

And yet, each day Rudra arrives early to the centre—eager, cheerful, and ready to learn. It is a place where he feels safe, where he is known, and where he can simply be a child.

For Rudra and his sisters, the centre is more than a classroom -it is a place of stability, care, and belonging in the midst of uncertainty.

💛 A shared story

These are just four stories among many.

They remind us that change does not happen overnight, but it does happen when people choose to care, to show up, and to invest in the lives of others.

This is the heart of Project Help India.

And it is only possible because of people like you.

As we reflect this Easter, we are reminded again that love is not passive - it is active. It brings life. It restores hope. It changes futures.

Thank you for being part of this story. Together, we are helping create new possibilities - one child, one family, one community at a time.