BHN focuses its work in Varanasi, India. Varanasi is one of the oldest cities in the world and poorest cities in India. It is also a holy city in Hinduism and many Indians travel for days to come die in Varanasi in the hopes of reaching salvation. With a population of over one million people, approximately 140,000 of these live
in slums. These are the children and families BHN hopes to reach. BHN does this by supporting the work of Jeevan School, Hostel and Clinic in Varanasi, India. Jeevan is a separate organization in Varanasi that runs a free school and free hostel for street children as well as provides for clinic space for free medical care. Currently 130 children attend Jeevan School. In addition to being taught basic subjects (Hindi, English, Maths, Environmental Studies, Computer) children have regular library access, arts and dance activities as well as a time called “independent work” where the children freely explore new learning opportunities. Of the children attending the school, 40 children are allowed to stay at the Jeevan Hostel. The hostel provides a safe place for the children to be children. They are encouraged to play and participate in the hostel family and are protected from the abuse and neglect of the slum. For some children this means having a roof over their heads and regular food for the first time in their life. Specifically, BHN works to provide Jeevan with practical supports to continue this good work. BHN is able to provide funding for Jeevan School to pay the rent on the school, hostel and free medical clinic buildings. In order to advance the education of these children, BHN provides funds to pay for teachers so the children have access to paid, qualified teachers
BHN provides funds so the children have access to 3 nutritious meals a day as well as fresh fruits and snacks. BHN provides funds to pay for school supplies such as writing supplies, textbooks, story books, computers etc.