About the Charity
GIRL – India was established in February 2007 by Wynne Clift from Tynemouth, England. The first project was GIRL (Girls Institute for Rehabilitation and Learning) in Vijayawada which is run by the co-ordinator Radhika Premramasaran, an experienced social worker. Having previously worked in other NGOs in the state of Andhra Pradesh it was felt there was a need for a home for young girls. They decided to set up a charity to provide a safe and secure environment for destitute girls between the ages of 5 and 10 years. There are 2 projects that GIRL - India runs: GIRL in Vijayawada, and Girl Himalaya.
Thousands of girls live on the streets and the number is increasing. Some live with their homeless mothers while others have to fend for themselves. Many are escaping physical, mental or sexual abuse while others have been abandoned by their parents because of family problems such as poverty, alcoholism or HIV/Aids. The threat of violence is ever present and girls as young as six years old can be forced into child labour or even prostitution. At GIRL we provide food, shelter, healthcare and on-going counselling. The girls also receive a basic education as well as vocational training such as tailoring or embroidery.