Apnalaya

Apnalaya is a Mumbai-based non-governmental organization (NGO) working towards community development and empowerment in urban slums and marginalized communities. Founded in 1973 by social workers and medical professionals, Apnalaya focuses on providing access to essential services such as healthcare, education, sanitation, and livelihood opportunities.

Apnalaya operates through various programs designed to address the specific needs of the communities it serves. These programs typically include:

• Health: Providing primary healthcare services, health education, and facilitating access to specialized medical care. This often includes maternal and child health programs.

• Education: Running schools, providing remedial education, and offering vocational training to children and adults. Focus is often placed on supporting girls' education.

• Livelihood: Offering skill development training, facilitating access to microfinance, and promoting entrepreneurship to improve economic stability within the communities.

• Community Development: Implementing initiatives to improve sanitation, access to clean water, and overall infrastructure in the areas they serve. They also work to empower communities to advocate for their rights and entitlements.

Apnalaya's work is often characterized by its participatory approach, involving community members in the planning and implementation of programs. They often partner with local government agencies, other NGOs, and corporations to achieve their goals.

The organization's name, "Apnalaya," roughly translates to "Our Home" or "A Place of Our Own," reflecting its commitment to creating a sense of belonging and ownership within the communities it serves.