Mountain Children's Foundation

Mountain Children’s Foundation (MCF) works to empower children in the mountain regions by nurturing leadership, strengthening community participation, and promoting child rights. It believes that when children gain confidence, knowledge, and collective strength, they transform their communities. MCF’s mission focuses on creating safe, inclusive spaces where children express themselves freely, engage with governance systems, and build values of trust, respect, and responsibility.

Major Interventions:

Empowering Children Through Participation: MCF strengthens Bal Sangathans where children learn leadership, communication, teamwork, and advocacy. These groups meet regularly, organise community activities, and raise issues with local authorities. The program builds confidence among children, encourages girls’ leadership, and promotes inclusion across caste, age, and ability. Children lead environmental actions, conduct surveys, present their views in public forums, and participate in child protection committees.

Development and Health: MCF works with Mata Samitis and Anganwadi centres to improve maternal and child wellbeing. Mothers receive guidance on nutrition, breastfeeding, immunisation, and newborn care. Communities become more aware of health practices, and parents learn to support children’s growth. MCF also promotes the Right to Education by strengthening School Management Committees, improving parent–teacher engagement, and encouraging regular schooling. Community-based groups receive training on disaster preparedness, digital safety, and menstrual hygiene, helping families stay informed and resilient.

Child Protection: MCF builds the capacity of village and ward-level protection committees to identify risks and respond to child labour, abuse, early marriage, and unsafe environments. Children learn about consent, safe and unsafe touch, and online behaviour. Parents and teachers receive support to recognise signs of distress and access protection services.

Remedial Education: MCF conducts after-school classes in English and Mathematics for primary-level students. The classes support children who face learning challenges and help them improve foundational skills. Volunteers offer individual attention, encourage school attendance, and motivate children to aim higher.