RAGPICKERS EDUCATION DEVELOPMENT SCHEME (REDS)- PATNA

In September 2002, the Trust carried out a comprehensive survey to assess the needs of the local community. The programs were introduced according to the most urgent needs while making the best use of the available resources. During the initial stages, the rented Marianist residence served as classrooms and a training center for tutoring and skill development programs for the neighborhood youth until the construction of the present institute-cum-residence on XTTI Road, Mariam Tola.

In May 2017, the social outreach center was officially inaugurated, in the presence of the Trust officials, well-wishers, local residents, and beneficiaries. Since then, the center has become a welcoming space where ragpickers, school dropouts, and other vulnerable children gather every Saturday for recreational activities, educational support, and refreshments. As many families continue to depend on the children’s earnings to supplement their household income, these weekly gatherings provide them with encouragement, care, and opportunities for personal growth. Volunteers from the local community, youth organizations, schools, colleges, and training institutes generously contribute their time by mentoring and supporting the children.

Despite financial and logistical constraints, number of children are currently enrolled in formal schools with the active cooperation of their parents. Dedicated volunteers regularly monitor their academic progress, while the Trust continues to bear the expenses of their education, reaffirming its commitment to ensuring that underprivileged children have access to quality learning opportunities. The total number of beneficiaries are 96.