SAMPARC BALGRAM, BHAJE

SAMPARC Balgram, Bhaje, is a model residential child care project committed to the holistic development of orphaned, destitute, and socially marginalized girl children. At present, the centre provides shelter and comprehensive care to 125 girls within a structured and nurturing environment. The institution functions as a full-fledged Children’s Village, comprising 12 Balsadans, each designed to accommodate ten children. Every Balsadan is managed by a housemother who assumes the full responsibility of caregiving, ensuring the daily routine of the children is well-structured and consistent. From waking the children up in the morning to preparing them for school and monitoring their academic progress, hygiene, emotional needs, and overall well-being, the housemother plays a vital parental role in their upbringing.

The Children’s Home operates under the direct supervision of Mrs. Ratna Banerjee, Founder Trustee and Project Coordinator. She is supported by a multidisciplinary team that includes a project in charge, counsellor, social worker, tutors, sports instructor, and housemothers. Together, this team works toward providing a balanced and developmental environment for the children. The Bhaje centre is uniquely situated in a picturesque, green, and serene location, spread over four acres of land. The spacious and natural setting enhances the emotional and physical well-being of the children, making it an ideal place for their upbringing.

The infrastructure of the centre includes a community hall, a central kitchen-cum-dining hall, an administrative office, a library, a guest room, a counselling and meeting room, study spaces, a computer room, a medical centre, a playground, a basketball ground, a garden, and well-maintained staff quarters. These facilities are designed to support both the academic and extracurricular development of the children.

Children residing at the centre attend various educational institutions based on their age and academic level. The children attend Lily English Medium School & Junior College in Malavli and VPS School. In addition to formal schooling, the children receive after-school tutoring and special academic coaching in subjects such as English, mathematics, science,  and computer skills.

Healthcare is a priority at SAMPARC Balgram. Regular medical checkups are conducted to ensure the well-being of all children. A part-time nurse visits the centre daily, and a doctor conducts routine visits to address the health concerns of the children. In case of emergencies or specialized treatment, children are referred to the SAMPARC Medical Centre in Malavli or the Saraswati Hospital in Lonavala.

In the area of physical education and recreational development, the children are trained in various sports and extracurricular activities. Regular sessions in outdoor and indoor games, physical training, and march past are part of their weekly routine. Artistic development is equally encouraged through regular activities such as music, drawing, and painting. Resource persons from diverse fields are invited to conduct workshops and sessions focused on life skills, value education, emotional resilience, and personality development. Programs such as Art of Living are also incorporated into the curriculum to promote mindfulness and self-awareness.

Capacity building of staff is an ongoing focus. Regular team discussions are held to assess the needs of the children and to refine the roles and responsibilities of caregivers. The objective is to build confidence and competence among staff members, enabling them to work more effectively with the children and to support each other as a cohesive team.

SAMPARC Balgram, Bhaje, therefore represents a comprehensive, community-integrated care model that prioritizes education, emotional and physical wellbeing, life skills, and a sense of family and community, empowering vulnerable girls to grow into confident and capable individuals.