Organizational Background

Street children are growing up in an exceptional situation. Although a hazardous environment, in many ways street life can be an empowering experience. Individuals have access to income and group-based social capital and are in control of their day-to-day decision-making. This ambiguity has important implications when working with street children. While addressing marginalization (exclusion from access to rights and social and material resources) it is important to recognize the skills and resourcefulness of street children, and to build upon their existing capacities and capabilities.

The marginalization of street children must be understood to be a dual process of exclusion from and an opting out of society. The children have been socialized in a street culture, which is often characterized by a negative self-perception and a negative understanding of the structure and functions of society.

SathSath works through an alternative livelihood model which is focused on realizing children’s social and economic rights. Economically, this means supporting children to address their educational and vocational needs, which will guide them towards a sustainable livelihood. Socially, this means addressing street children’s need for social participation and access to opportunities and resources.

We respect each child as an individual. It is our job to support the children to understand their unique potential and assist them to realize their dreams.

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