Living with dignity: Mumbai Smiles Foundation extends its work to Victims of Human Trafficking

Mumbai Smiles Foundation, as part of its 2019-20 vision aims at improving the lives of Victims of Human Trafficking. Check out their plan here….

14th May

For Madhu*, life has not been the greatest. She had come to Mumbai hoping to find a job that could help her support her family back home. Little did she know that her ‘recruitment agent’ would make her a victim of human trafficking. For a few years, it was tough. But then Madhu was discovered by Mumbai Smiles Foundation, and despite struggles, her life has considerably improved. For the year, 2019-20, Mumbai Smiles Foundation has restructured its projects and programmes to specifically work on improving the life conditions of victims of human trafficking, from Kamathipura, Khetwadi and Ghatkopar areas.

In 2016, the Global Slavery Index reported a population of 18.3 million in India who were victims of human trafficking. Statistics also revealed that there were 6.1 victims of human trafficking for every 1,000 individuals.

As part of its projects, Mumbai Smiles Foundation aims to provide educational, health and nutritional services; legal support; and psychological counseling and treatment to victims of human trafficking suffering from mental health issues at the Kamathipura Community Centre. Beneficiaries are also empowered with knowledge on health, hygiene, fundamental human rights and legal issues. To help them cope with mental stress, art therapy sessions are provided at the centre. Mumbai Smiles Foundation also provides educational materials to support their children.

Through these programmes not only will victims of human trafficking have the fundamental right to live in dignity, but also the right to be independent and walk with their head held high.

* Name Changed