In the wake of Indian independence, many children were separated from their families and often without shelter, food, or access to basic necessities. They had nowhere to turn for help and no way of receiving the support they desperately needed. The Delhi Council for Child Welfare (DCCW) was established in 1952 to create pathways for children to move from surviving to thriving and has stood as a beacon of hope and resilience for over seven decades.

The flagship program at DCCW, Palna™, offers abandoned children shelter, nutrition, and early education. In the 50 years since the program’s inception, Palna™ has facilitated the adoption of over 3,300 children into loving families, underscoring DCCW’s deep commitment to providing stability and opportunity for society’s youngest and most vulnerable members. Their complementary Palna WeeKids program focuses on play-based preschool education for young underprivileged children, with more than 80% of graduates moving successfully into mainstream schools. 

The Power of Compassionate Early Childhood Care

The Palna WeeKids program places a strong emphasis on building children’s confidence through engaging, play-based learning and creating a nurturing environment where every child feels valued. The story of one graduate, Jai Joshi, reflects the quiet, powerful transformations made possible through this program. Arriving at the Qudsia Bagh Centre after moving to Delhi from another state, shy three-year-old Jai struggled with a language barrier and the pain of leaving home. He kept to himself, struggled to communicate, and found little comfort among his peers.

Within the gentle, welcoming environment of WeeKids, Jai found the listening ear he needed. Ms. Ramsha Mirza, his instructor, took the time to connect with him, inviting him to play, coaxing out stories, and celebrating each step forward. Encouraged by kindness and steady support, the walls Jai had built began to come down. He started joining activities, completing homework, and connecting with classmates. He became more engaged and lively, and the increased strength in his speech gave way to a newfound confidence that radiated through the classroom.

Palna WeeKids served as more than just an introduction to formal education for Jai. When it came time for school admissions, Ms. Ramsha became a guide for Jai’s parents, helping them navigate a process that can feel impossibly complex for some families. Thanks to her care and the skills Jai developed at WeeKids, he entered the United English Medium School in Civil Lines, where he’s now thriving alongside his new classmates.

Partnership with CAF America

Jai’s story is just one example of the life-changing work made possible through DCCW’s innovative programs. Since 2018, CAF America has granted over $240,000 to DCCW, supporting their Palna™, Palna WeeKids, and a portfolio of other programs.

The impact of DCCW and its programs on the greater Delhi community is incredible. This year, over 1,100 children enrolled in Palna WeeKids and about 450 have successfully transitioned into regular schools. More than 1,300 girls enrolled in vocational training and 470 girls have earned nationally recognized vocational certifications. Over 400 children enrolled for after school supervised homework support and nearly 1,000 students receive ongoing educational sponsorships. Through this sustained support, children like Jai are able to break cycles of disadvantaged circumstances and step confidently into brighter futures.

The generous support from donors and partners like CAF America enables DCCW to maintain and expand these vital services, continuing their mission of nurturing every child’s potential and giving countless children the chance to thrive. This collective commitment empowers opportunities where childhoods are restored and futures are rebuilt, one success story at a time.