Calcutta Rescue is a registered NGO operating in Calcutta and sections of rural West Bengal. Created in 1979 by British doctor, Jack Preger M.B.E. CR was established to serve the most socially and economically disadvantaged people of the region regardless of gender, age, caste or religion. The organization provides free health care, a street medicine program, preventative health programs, education, and various training groups to help individuals combat poverty through employment. Although India is one of the fastest-growing large economies it still holds an unbearably high poverty rate. It is estimated that between Calcutta and areas of West Bengal, almost 4 million people live below the poverty line. Thanks to people like Dr. Preger and the hundreds of individuals locally and Internationally some of those 4 million individuals have a chance at a better life.
Calcutta Rescue has three clinics where they treat those who do not have access to a hospital. These clinics provide daily wound care for patients suffering from burns, Hansen's disease, post surgical wounds, ulcers or other common ailments. Long term and ongoing treatments are available for patients suffering from: HIV, Aids, Tuberculosis, Multi-Drug Resistant Tuberculosis, Cancer, Aplastic Anemia, Neurological disorders, Wilson's Disease, Diabetes, Cardiac conditions and Respiratory disorders amongst others. The Talapark clinic (which is featured here) has a specialty Mother and Child program where women can have pre and post natal care including feeding programs for babies suffering from malnutrition and distribution of vitamins and deworming medication. Amongst the incredible and extensive list of services CR offers they also have a department for disabilities, glass fitting station, allocate transportation allowances, give clothing and winter garments, offer schooling for young children, install water purification systems, provide safe drinking water courses and operate an ambulance that regularly visits local neighborhoods.
Beyond providing life saving medical care CR wants individuals to feel empowered and have a place in the workforce. They devised a specialty Handicrafts program to teach individuals skills like sewing so they can make clothing for clinic patients and children's school uniforms. These skills have helped hundreds make useful and saleable items at local bazaars and through Fair Trade shops. Calcutta Rescue addresses the multitude or reasons why people are, or become, in need and ways to help them heal and succeed. For anyone interested in supporting the incredible efforts of this group please visit:
http://www.calcuttarescue.org/how-can-you-help/donations/
Or contact the US Support chapter: WHEN- World Health and Education Network Email: whenUSA@gmail.com
Special Thanks to Dr. Jack Preger, Dr. Jonathan Reisman and the entire staff at Talapark clinic.
