Pune: Hope for Children Foundation Honoured for Child Welfare Initiatives

Pune, March 3, 2025: In a moment of pride for Maharashtra, Hope for the Children Foundation (HFCF) has been recognized for its exceptional contributions to child welfare at The Balnehi Award 2024, organized by the Maharashtra State Commission for Protection of Child Rights. The foundation received this prestigious state award for the second consecutive year, acknowledging its initiatives in protecting and supporting vulnerable children.

The award specifically honors India’s first Child-Friendly Room in a district hospital—an innovative facility established in partnership with the District Legal Service Authority and District Hospital Aundh. This pioneering initiative serves as a one-stop center for victims of POCSO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences) cases during medical procedures, ensuring a safe, comforting, and child-sensitive environment.

Dr. Nagnath Yampalle, Civil Surgeon, was also recognized for his efforts in successfully implementing this initiative at Aundh District Hospital.
In addition to the institutional recognition, Caroline Audoir de Valter, Founder, Hope for the Children Foundation,was honored for her pivotal role as a collaborative partner with the Maharashtra State Commission for Protection of Child Rights. Her contributions have been instrumental in designing and executing various innovative Child-Friendly models across Maharashtra.

The awards were presented by Maharashtra’s Women and Child Development Minister, Hon. Aditi Tatkare, alongside Chairperson of the State Child Rights Protection Commission, Adv. Sushiben Shah, Minister of State Pankaj Bhoyar, and Additional Director General of Police for Prevention of Crimes Against Children and Women, Ashwati Dorje. The dignitaries commended HFCF’s efforts in fostering a safer and more supportive environment for children.

Building a Child-Friendly Maharashtra
Since 2019, Hope for the Children Foundation has been at the forefront of the Child-Friendly initiative, introducing and implementing child-centric programs not only in Pune but across Maharashtra. With over two decades of grassroots work and advocacy experience, HFCF has played a vital role in training various stakeholders and launching campaigns to strengthen child protection systems.

The foundation has successfully developed and implemented nine distinct Child-Friendly models across Maharashtra. These initiatives include Child-Friendly Police Stations, Task Forces, Hospitals, Schools, Anganwadis, Child Care Institutes, Railway Stations, Communities, and Courts, ensuring that children receive the care and protection they deserve at every level of society. These models integrate prevention, treatment, and child-centric mechanisms, creating a holistic support system for children in need.

As Maharashtra continues to work toward a child-friendly society, the contributions of Hope for the Children Foundation stand as a beacon of hope for thousands of children seeking safety, support, and empowerment.