The Lost Children Of Calcutta Station

While India experiences record economic growth and national prosperity, 100,000 children remain homeless and on the streets. Many seek shelter in the cities train stations, in particular Sealdah, in the heart of Calcutta. Runaways, orphans, children abandoned by their parents, simply too poor to care for their own, these children must fight to survive. With the few rupees made everyday they will eat, go to the cinema, and often buy drugs as a means to escape their grueling daily reality.

These children are hungry for change, for freedom. An NGO association, the Dom Bosco Ashalayam, attempts to come to their aid, offering a roof over their heads, an education and, ultimately, a better future; a future away from the squalor and drugs of the station, a place where the children can take control of their own destinies.

A French priest, Father François-Marie, who left behind his life and work in a wealthy district of Paris to live amongst these forgotten children, accompanies and assists them in their daily lives, looking after the small “sores” and the greater sufferings they experience. His incredible work is a testimony to faith, a humble life assisting the poorest of the poor.