Being self-sufficient means the world to me. I can help my family, take care of my needs, and even think about my hobbies if I want,” Kaikasha said with a radiant smile.

But reaching this point was never easy for her. Kaikasha came to Calcutta Rescue’s No. 10 education centre when she was just 4 years old. She studied there for 15 years, and it made a big difference. She lives close to the No. 10 centre with her parents and two siblings. Her dad sells fruits. Her little brother had to stop school early to work, collecting old clothes and selling them to a thrift store.

“Kaikasha has always been a dedicated student. She worked hard,” said Priyanka, the head of the No. 10 centre. “And it’s not just her studies; she’s an amazing dancer and participates in cultural events.”

Calcutta Rescue brought out the best in Kaikasha. She said, “Without Calcutta Rescue’s help, I wouldn’t have known I could be self-sufficient, that I can achieve something.”

Kaikasha chose to study commerce for higher education. After her class 12 exams, she started college and also wanted a part-time job.

“Usually, at my age, many girls get married, but Calcutta Rescue taught me to be independent and support myself first. That’s what I wanted,” she explained.

She asked for help to get training, and Calcutta Rescue’s vocational training manager, Tuli, arranged a one-year Advanced Diploma course in Financial Accountancy for her. Kaikasha excelled in her training, and on July 13, 2023, she began working part-time at an accounting firm, earning 8000 rupees each month. This helped improve her family’s meagre income.