Initially the Bala Shanti project aimed to offer nutrition, education and healthcare to a small group of children from the ages of 3 to 5. Today the project helps thousands of children in 17 villages, who are in turn directly involved with their families in the battle against poverty, stirring up a proactive social participation.

In 2002, after the first contacts with the Focolare and the two visits of Chiara Lubich in  India, the “Support from a Distance” program of the New Families Movement began a new and ongoing partnership with the Bala Shanti project, in support of hundreds of children.

One of the programs of the Bala Shanti – the Children’s Parliament, was created in 2006, and is composed of former students of the project: over 800 children and adolescents from 6 to 18 who meet regularly to lay down the action themes that involve them directly, such as the promotion of hygiene, continuing education, social participation and community service.

Another renowned initiative is that of the Children’s Bank, created by children for children. This initiative was launched in May 2013 with the aim of teaching children the value of savings and financial planning for their own education, besides donating a part of their savings to help children who are poorer than them. In 2015 over 1,500 children, small savers, participated in the project.

This year the 25th anniversary of the Bala Shanti project is being celebrated with joy in view of the positive results achieved.

More information: Bala Shanti Project