FOCI is very active in providing educational opportunities for those in need in India. Our view is that education is a necessary tool to begin to break the cycle of poverty and despair that disadvantaged families deal with every day.

 Below are some of the programs made possible for those who currently have so little….

 The Shanthi School – Khammam.  The Shanthi (“Peace”) school began as a one-room schoolhouse, meeting for classes in one of the newly- built Habitat homes. Soon, a piece of property nearby was purchased through a grant from an American donor, and three classrooms were built. Over the years, more classroom space has been added as funds have been available. Now, all these years later, the school is a lively, thriving school for K through 10. Open to all children, the school is a great source of pride to the neighborhood — and to us!
  

The Azariah School and Hostel in the village of Gollapudi (near Khammam).  There are many rural families who want their children to attend school — but simply can’t afford the cost of books and uniforms, not to mention the loss to the family income when a child who could beg, farm or clean wants to go to school.  Our Azariah School  takes the burden off the parents by providing a place for children to live and learn together.  They love being there together — and we love their enthusiasm!

The Lotus Learning Center (Hyderabad) opened its doors in 2013 in the Kukatpally neighborhood of Hyderabad, welcoming in children of deeply impoverished families. At the Lotus Center, children receive afterschool tutoring from trained teachers, as well as a nutritious meal.  And they have fun!

Support to Hyderabad schools: provides support to five public schools in Hyderabad by providing tutors and support staff, so that the children of the poorest neighborhoods have a chance to thrive. Our tutoring support has helped to boost test scores among the 10th class students, enabling them to have a good chance at college and university!