We live in terrible times. Covid, lockdown, the long march of migrant workers, their deaths, cyclone Amphan– an endless series of adversities have gripped our present. Like everyone, we have been overwhelmed by this maelstrom, but also quickly aware of the urgent need to act. As an effort in this direction, we recently launched Students' Teachers' Alliance, a small initiative offering monthly monetary support to students in classes IX to XII. Our intent is to help them with their economic needs- whatever they may be- so that they aren’t compelled to drop out of school due to financial distress. This present drive is directed at helping students we have been working with buy textbooks and stationery.

Of the 35 school kids we are currently supporting 15 are from the Amphan affected Diamond Harbour area. Several of them have lost their homes and been thrown into financial quagmire with the rest of their family. Although still in school and eager to continue with their education buying books has become an unachievable luxury for all of them. The aim of this fundraising campaign is to help them address these needs.

   We were introduced to these students by our on-ground contact from the Kolkata based NGO, Swayam. Over our weekly phone interaction with the kids we learnt of the books they are in need of, it is on the basis of this that we have arrived at the current figure. Once collected the money will be sent to them directly, as per their individual needs, in the same manner as the monthly stipend we have been offering.