Since 2019, Hope for the Children Foundation has been a "pioneer” in bringing the Child Friendly program to Pune and now throughout the state of Maharashtra.
The Child Friendly Initiative is the result of two decades of grassroots work and advocacy experience, which includes a variety of training sessions for various stakeholders and advocacy campaigns—empowering children, enriching communities! Our 9 Child-Friendly models in Pune, Maharashtra, pioneer a holistic ecosystem for child protection and development. By integrating prevention, treatment, and child-centric mechanisms, we create safe havens for children to learn, grow, and flourish. Together, let's build a Child-Friendly Maharashtra.
For the past four years, Hope for the Children Foundation has been working to create a collaborative ecosystem that protects children's rights. Our approach is comprehensive, focusing on prevention, care, and the promotion of child-friendly practices with the Police Department in Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC), and rural police.
A significant milestone was reached on November 30th, 2020, when we inaugurated Maharashtra’s first Child-Friendly Police Station at the Lashkar police station. This marked the beginning of a new chapter in supporting children in need. Since then, we’ve been honored to serve as members of the Special Juvenile Police Unit for Pune, PCMC, and Rural Pune, ensuring that children's voices are heard and their rights are upheld.
In 2023, we partnered with the Center of Police Research to promote child-friendly policing across Maharashtra. Together, we are dedicated to creating a safer environment for children, working hand-in-hand with law enforcement to make a real difference in their lives.
Hope for the Children Foundation fosters early childhood education through a collaborative approach with parents and communities. We conduct workshops on nutrition, hygiene, and cognitive development while integrating play-based learning, storytelling, and hands-on activities. Regular assessments ensure personalized support.
We equip Anganwadis with learning materials, books, and toys, alongside health initiatives like medical check-ups and nutrition programs. Digital tools expand education access, and special programs support children with disabilities. Collaborating with local authorities, we empower Anganwadi workers with lasting skills, creating a sustainable impact. Our goal: build a strong foundation and lifelong love for learning in every child.
CHILD FRIENDLY SCHOOL
Our child-friendly school prioritizes children's well-being, safety, and holistic development, fostering a supportive environment where their rights are respected, and their potential is nurtured. We ensure well-equipped facilities that make learning enjoyable while integrating life skills education to prepare students for real-world challenges. Our preventive and protective approach emphasizes child-centric learning, parent-teacher awareness, and community advocacy, creating a secure and nurturing space for growth.
We incorporate interactive teaching methods to keep children engaged and motivated. Special attention is given to emotional and mental well-being through counseling and mindfulness activities. Our programs also promote inclusivity, ensuring equal opportunities for all children to learn and succeed.
CHILD FRIENDLY HOSPITAL
The Child-Friendly One-Stop Centre (OSC) at District Hospital Aundh provides comprehensive support for children affected by sexual abuse and other forms of mistreatment, including physical, emotional, and mental abuse. Our centre ensures a safe, welcoming space where children feel secure, valued, and their confidentiality is upheld. By offering medical care, legal assistance, counseling, and rehabilitation services under one roof, we provide holistic care to help them heal and recover.
We work closely with trained professionals to deliver trauma-informed support tailored to each child's needs. Awareness programs educate communities on child protection and prevention strategies. Our long-term rehabilitation initiatives empower children with emotional resilience and life skills, helping them rebuild their futures with confidence.
CHILD FRIENDLY CHILD CARE INSTITUTE (CCI)
We collaborate with Child Care Institutions (CCIs) in Pune to strengthen their ability to provide care and protection for vulnerable children, including those in need of shelter and rehabilitation, as well as those in conflict with the law. These institutions play a crucial role in offering safe housing, nutritious food, and structured rehabilitation programs. Our support includes educational initiatives, capacity-building training, and counseling services to enhance child protection and overall well-being. By empowering CCIs, we ensure they can deliver holistic care and rehabilitation effectively.
We also facilitate life skills training to help children build confidence and independence. Regular monitoring and evaluation ensure the effectiveness of our interventions. Additionally, we advocate for child-friendly policies to improve the overall child welfare system.
CHILD FRIENDLY TASK FORCE
In collaboration with Pune Police and the Barosa Cell, we have launched India’s first Child-Friendly Task Force. This specialized team provides 24/7 transport support for children's medical, legal, and welfare needs, ensuring their safety and dignity throughout the process. Assisting all Pune police stations, the task force offers on-call guidance and creates a protective ecosystem that fosters children's well-being and development.
We conduct regular training for personnel to handle child-sensitive cases with care. Awareness campaigns educate communities on child rights and protection measures. Continuous evaluation and feedback help refine our approach, ensuring the highest standards of support for vulnerable children.
CHILD FRIENDLY RAILWAY STATION UNIT
In collaboration with the Ministry of Railways, we have launched India’s second and Maharashtra’s first ‘Child-Friendly Railway Station Unit.’ This initiative brings together local authorities, railway staff, child welfare organizations, and community members to support at-risk children, ensuring they receive the care, protection, and rehabilitation they need. Our efforts focus on identifying vulnerable children and providing immediate assistance, creating a safer environment within railway stations.
We conduct specialized training for railway personnel to recognize and respond to child safety concerns. Awareness drives educate passengers and station staff on child protection protocols. Our integrated support system ensures rescued children receive long-term rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
Our Child-Friendly Community initiative strives to create a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment by upholding children's rights and protection. Following its successful implementation in Zone 3, we aim to expand to Zone 4, emphasizing awareness, capacity building, and active community engagement. By fostering collaboration among stakeholders, we ensure the holistic development and well-being of every child.
We conduct regular workshops to educate communities on child rights and safety. Strengthening local child protection mechanisms ensures prompt response to risks. Additionally, mentorship programs empower children with life skills and confidence for a brighter future.
CHILD FRIENDLY COURT
A Child-Friendly Court provides a safe, supportive, and non-intimidating space for children involved in legal proceedings. It adopts child-sensitive practices, employs specially trained personnel, and features infrastructure designed to meet children's unique needs. This initiative prioritizes children's emotional well-being while ensuring a fair judicial process, making legal proceedings less stressful and more accessible.
We implement specialized training for judges and legal staff to handle child cases with sensitivity. Child-friendly waiting areas and counseling support help reduce anxiety during court visits. Additionally, technology-assisted testimony options ensure children can share their experiences safely and comfortably.