SAMA FOUNDATION
(SAMA is a kannada word which means "Equal")
HISTORY
Welcome to Sama Foundation, a non-profit organization committed to empowering marginalized communities with a specific focus on persons with disabilities, urban poor, and slum dwellers laborers. Our mission is to enhance their quality of life and dignity through comprehensive initiatives in education, livelihood support, healthcare, and social entitlements.
Sama Foundation traces its roots to the passion and dedication of Ramanathan, who previously worked at EveryChild-UK. EveryChild-UK, primarily focused on addressing the challenges faced by street children, child labor, and trafficking victims in India. Recognizing the need to work among the most marginalized in society, EveryChild expressed interest in supporting children with disabilities through an Inclusive Development Approach. Mr. G. Ramappa, the Country Director of EveryChild-UK, played a pivotal role in initiating the establishment of Sama Foundation.
On December 28, 2005, Ramanathan, along with a group of committed young individuals with disabilities, came together to formally establish Sama Foundation.
In light of the stark statistics – only 1% of the disability community receiving education according to the National Sample Survey Organization (1991) – we recognized the urgent need for intervention. Limited employment opportunities further compounded the challenges faced by disabled individuals, as societal stigma often hindered even basic manual job opportunities. This predicament left many dependent on their families for daily needs.
OUR VISION – OUR DREAM FOR INDIA
“Let’s dream about India.“ : To be inclusive, equitable, humane, sustainable, and resilient, ensuring that marginalised communities are free from hunger, poverty, discrimination, and exploitation, thereby enabling them to live dignified, high-quality lives.
OUR MISSION – OUR ACTION FOR INDIA
“Together, let’s build India” : To empower marginalised communities, focusing on persons with disabilities, urban poor, and migrant laborers, to enhance their quality of life and dignity through education, livelihood support, healthcare, and social entitlements.
Following extensive discussions, we decided to focus our efforts on Education and Livelihood programs, aiming to provide not only education but also essential skills that would create access to sustainable sources of income, allowing individuals to lead dignified lives.
Our dedication extends beyond serving individuals with disabilities. We are actively involved in community-based inclusive development, with a focus on overall community (slum) development. This includes equipping the youth with employable skills and facilitating access to social entitlements and government services.
At Sama Foundation, we believe in the transformative power of education, livelihood, and inclusive development. Join us in our mission to build a more inclusive and compassionate society. Together, we can make a difference.
