Tiljala Shed

Education has always been a fundamental part of Tiljala SHED's mission since its establishment in 1987. Starting with one classroom in Tiljala, it has now expanded to numerous classrooms across Kolkata. The Sponsorship Programme for Destitute Girls, supported by the Italian Association for Women in Development (AIDOS) since 1995, provides full scholarships and essential support to girls, ensuring their continuous education and having a significant impact in the local area. The Gyan Azhar Library, with a vast collection of books, computers, and internet access, benefits girls in Tiljala's slums, promoting learning and knowledge exchange.

Tiljala SHED operates two shelter homes. The Open Shelter Home at Park Circus provides temporary refuge to 38 children during the day and accommodates 15 overnight. These children are placed under the care of the organisation by the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) until permanent solutions are found. The programme, supported by the Ministry of Women and Children, West Bengal, offers food, education, and recreational activities. Additionally, Aasra Sadan is a children's home located in a village, supporting children from rag-picker families and vulnerable backgrounds. These children receive education in nearby Government schools, with dedicated classrooms in the hostel. They represent the first generation of learners in their families.

In 2015, Tiljala SHED launched its livelihood programme through the Global Giving Winter Gateway Challenge, securing the first position. Starting with seed funding, the organisation initially faced difficulties in loan recovery from rag pickers. To address this, it formed Credit Interest Groups (CIGs) of 5 women, providing small-interest loans. Drawing from 20 years of micro-finance experience with the Trickle Up Foundation, Tiljala SHED empowered beneficiaries to establish businesses. These loans opened avenues for entrepreneurship, often faster than anticipated. The programme allows easy access to credit, is supported by Misereor (Germany), and aids staff salaries. Additionally, the Beauty Training & Empowerment Centre, established with Godrej's support, offers beauty skills training, enabling girls to be self-reliant by working in beauty parlours or as freelancers.

Tiljala SHED's programme assists rag pickers and marginalized communities who lack legal entitlements and documentation, often unrecognized by local authorities. It has played a key role in opening numerous bank accounts under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, enabling individuals to access banking services that were previously hindered by bureaucratic hurdles. Additionally, it oversees solid waste collection and management, partnering with entities like Cognizant, TATA Consultancy Services, Science City, Atmosphere, and housing complexes, supported by Misereor (Germany). Annually, it hosts a seminar uniting corporates, bureaucrats, police, journalists, and community members to engage in a direct dialogue with rag pickers, understanding their challenges and proposing solutions.