The children helped by NewDawn India through Vidiyal live in the poorest communities with their families. They are supported to attend school regularly and, after school, they attend one of the several drop-in centres in Madurai, run by Vidiyal.
Here they receive help with their homework and take part in games, karate, dance and drama as well as a variety of workshops and personal interest groups.
The drop-in centres are run by volunteers – older Vidiyal children who are now at college and want to give something back to the organisation that is helping them.
Medical camps are held regularly and there is counselling where needed. Camps and visits to places of interest widen the experiences of the youngsters.
Many of these young people have graduated with Bachelor and Master’s degrees and are now bringing up their own families. Some have formed a very active alumni group, becoming role models within the slum communities.
