Japanese government has decided to extend financial assistance of US Dollar 81,729, equivalent to approximately Nepalese Rupees 8,714,000, to Smile Nepal under the Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP) scheme of the Government of Japan, in Japan’s Fiscal Year 2016. Smile Nepal, a Nepali NGO with its head office in Kathmandu District, will implement the Project for the Construction of Children’s Home in Nuwakot District.

According to a press release issued by Japanese Embassy, a Grant Contract relating to this project was signed and exchanged today at the Embassy of Japan, between Masashi OGAWA, Ambassador of Japan to Nepal, and  Radhesh Pant, President of Smile Nepal.

This grant assistance will be used to implement the project in Samundradevi Kholagaun VDC in Nuwakot District and aims to assist children in difficult situations by providing a safe and educational environment in a children’s home.

According to an NGO report, it is estimated that there are about 1,500 street children in Kathmandu. These children came from rural areas hoping to get a job, but could not obtain one. Some became street children, others became unaccompanied children. They, in general, do not have an access to education and basic health service. Additionally, they face the dangers of drugs, sexual harassment, mental, and physical violence on the streets.

Smile Nepal, with the aim of supporting those street children, managed a care home in Nuwakot by renting rooms in a local house. However, due to the earthquake of 2015, the care home was almost demolished and could not continue.  The organization also worked with the Annapurna Hotel to feed street children.

“The Embassy of Japan in Nepal expects the success of this project will benefit poor urban children who will gain an environment where they can feel physically and mentally safe and will also gain an opportunity to grow into good citizens.  Finally, it is felt that this project will also enhance the cordial friendship between the peoples of Japan and Nepal,” said a press release issued by Embassy of Japan.