I am writing on behalf of Ashraya Foundation for Children to seek your support for a transformative initiative – the establishment of two Community Libraries in the underserved neighborhoods of Jijamata Nagar and Chandramma Nagar, Pune, India. For over 19 years, Ashraya has worked with marginalized communities including De-notified Tribes, Notified Tribes, and Scheduled Castes, addressing deep-rooted educational exclusion and social inequity. Our vision is to nurture
first-generation learners, create empowered communities, and break cycles of poverty through holistic education.
In May 2024, we launched our first community library in Ashok Nagar, which has quickly become a vibrant hub, serving 30–40 visitors daily through reading programs, storytelling, adult literacy sessions, and safe study spaces. Its
success has inspired us to replicate the model in two more communities where children face severe learning gaps, lack of academic support, and no access to reading materials.

These libraries will:

• Provide safe, inclusive spaces for learning and exploration

• Offer books, digital access, and reference materials for all ages

• Host literacy programs, cultural events, and skill-building workshops

• Be community-led, creating local employment and ownership

The total annual budget for both libraries is $22,500 (₹10,54,000 for Jijamata Nagar and ₹9,30,000 for Chandramma Nagar), covering infrastructure, books, full-time facilitators, and operational costs.
We believe your partnership can play a pivotal role in making this vision a reality. Your contribution will not only build physical spaces but will also open worlds of imagination, opportunity, and dignity for hundreds of children and adults.

Thank you for considering this request. Together, we can create a community that reads, learns, and grows.