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Grassroots Efforts Shine at Chembur's Pragati Mela
6 Mar
Summary
- Over 4,000 children gained academic support via after-school programs.
- More than 600 women acquired income-generating skills.
- Youth trained now earn ₹13,000 to ₹18,000 monthly.
Enrich Lives Foundation (ELF) will host its Pragati Mela 2026 on March 7 in Chembur, offering a grassroots showcase of social change. This non-profit, established during the COVID-19 pandemic, has dedicated six years to improving education, empowering women, and enhancing youth employability in Mumbai's slum communities and tribal areas.
The mela serves as an open house, bringing together stakeholders to witness ELF's impact. Programs like Khushiyon Ki Paathshaala have supported over 4,000 children academically, while Ashiyana day-care centres prepare rag-picker girls for formal schooling. ELF also supports two schools, benefiting hundreds of students.
On the livelihoods front, the Yuva Pragati Kendra has equipped young people with skills, enabling them to earn ₹13,000 to ₹18,000 monthly. Additionally, the Hastakala initiative has empowered over 600 women with income-generating skills, with their achievements displayed at the mela.
Founded by Rashmi Balwani, ELF evolved from an emergency response to a structured organization focused on education and employability as drivers of dignity. The Pragati Mela aims to raise awareness, attract volunteers, and demonstrate ELF's tangible results to potential donors.
