As he himself explained, for years many families slept under flimsy plastic sheets, stretched over bamboo poles, on the streets of Kolkata. With every monsoon season, rising waters threatened to sweep away their fragile shelter. These are stories like Mohammed Salim and his children’s, who lived in this precarious situation for a long time. “On 1 May this year, that fear finally vanished when his family crossed the threshold of a house made of bricks and corrugated iron: a home they could call their own,” the Salesian said.

“We want to thank the Salesians and Fr George for remembering us when no one else did. Now my children can sleep in peace,” commented Mr Salim.

The inauguration of these new low-cost homes in the Kapali Bagan–Narkeldanga slum marked a turning point for families who had long lived in makeshift huts along the canal. Exposed to the risk of fires, floods, disease and insecurity, they are now moving into permanent homes that guarantee safety, sanitation and dignity.

The initiative, led by the Salesians in Kolkata, has gradually transformed the lives of many people since its launch seven years ago. With this latest addition, the project has now completed 678 homes, each of which has been handed over to the families most in need. The beneficiaries expressed their sincere gratitude. “This house is more than a shelter: it is dignity. My daughters can grow up without fear,” said Shabana Begum, a mother of three.

The ceremony brought together local leaders, representatives of the Salesian Province of Calcutta, India and residents, who celebrated this milestone together with joy. The event highlighted the power of collective compassion in tackling urban poverty and underscored the Salesians’ commitment to the holistic development of the community.

Reflecting on this journey, Fr Mathew George concluded: “Every family deserves a roof to protect them, a space that is welcoming, and a home that restores their dignity. These homes are not merely shelters, but symbols of solidarity and hope”.

This social housing project stands as a beacon of what faith-driven humanitarian action can achieve. It offers a model for similar initiatives across India, reminding society that with commitment and compassion, transformation is possible, even in the most remote corners of every city.