The Shelter for Urban Homeless project of Howrah Central Supravat provides safe, dignified, and secure shelter to homeless individuals and families in the city of Howrah. Rapid urbanization and migration have forced daily labourers, rickshaw and handcart pullers, domestic workers, and informal sector workers—along with women and children—to live on streets, railway stations, bus stands, and under temporary plastic covers, exposing them to extreme weather and health risks.

Implemented in line with the Honourable Supreme Court of India’s “Right to Shelter” directive, a survey across 50 wards of Howrah Municipal Corporation identified 3,824 homeless persons, with the number increasing annually.

Currently, Howrah Central Supravat operates two 24×7 shelters in Central Howrah—one for men and one for women and children—with a combined capacity of 100 beneficiaries. The shelters provide safe accommodation, protection, basic medical support, referral services, child care support, and recreational facilities. Additional assistance such as clothing and essential items is provided based on need.

Project Outcome:
The initiative safeguards vulnerable populations from environmental risks, improves health and safety, supports livelihood continuity, and restores dignity and stability to urban homeless communities.

"Home of Esperanza" shelter home for 5 children at present. Previously it covered 25 children of Howrah Station mainly runaway children. Maximum children mainstreamed, or home placed as they have their own family and single parent. Now, these 5 children became adult and we are trying to mainstream them as well. They are continuing their study and parallel they are getting voctional training for their future betterment. We are providing them very secured and meaningfull life. The program is sponsorred by "Foundacion Esperanza-Y-Algeria, By Asha Shanti, Spain.

The Open Shelter for Boys, located at Tikiapara, Howrah, is implemented by Howrah Central Supravat under the Mission Vatsalya framework. The project provides care, protection, and rehabilitation support to 25 vulnerable boysaged 6 to 16 years.

The beneficiaries include child labourers, beggars, rag-pickers, children from single-parent families, and children from destitute communities who are exposed to neglect, abuse, and social risks.

The shelter ensures a safe, child-friendly, and protective environment with 24×7 care and supervision. All children are enrolled in formal schools and receive nutritious meals, healthcare support, educational assistance, coaching, counseling, and recreational activities. Special arrangements are made to address the needs of different age groups.

The shelter operates from a 2,000 sq. ft. facility and is supported by a qualified team comprising one Coordinator-cum-Counselor, one full-time Social Worker, two Caregivers, three Outreach Workers, a Cook, and a Security Guard.

Project Outcome:

The initiative promotes rehabilitation, education, emotional well-being, and social reintegration of vulnerable boys, enabling them to build a secure and promising future.