In this episode, Barbara Frey sits down with Dr. Smita Dharmamer, the Associate Director of Children in State Care at Aangan Trust India, and Mallika Setalvad, a citizen volunteer at the Nanhe Kadam Balwadi creche in Mumbai. Dr. Dharmamer explains how Aangan Trust, a child protection organization, has evolved to work directly with children living in prison with their caregivers. Drawing on Aangan Trust’s deep-rooted commitment to working within the system and communities, Dr. Dharmamer delves into the recent advancements in the use of prison creches and nurseries across India. Through a collaborative approach between nonprofits, correctional facilities, and citizen volunteers, Aangan Trust has spearheaded the establishment of nurseries and creches that not only serve the children of incarcerated individuals but also the children of prison guards. Finally, Setalvad provides an account of her hands-on experience as a citizen volunteer at the Nanhe Kadam Balwadi creche, offering invaluable insights into her role and emphasizing the conditions and practices that should be given precedence to best support the children in these units.
Children of Incarcerated Caregiver (“CIC”) is a nonprofit organization whose central mission is to research, identify, and implement solutions to enhance the lives of children affected by a parent’s incarceration. We strive to provide the latest and most accurate information regarding children affected by a parent’s incarceration. However, the podcasts posted on this website contain information that was presented as of the date each podcast was recorded. The information contained in any posted podcast may become outdated based on developments after recording. Some information contained in the podcasts is provided by third parties (such as interviewees), and CIC cannot and does not make any representation as to the accuracy or completeness of such information. CIC disclaims any liability related to the content of the podcasts posted to this website, other content presented on this website, and any CIC social media account.