GOA: CHILDLINE SERVICE CROSSES 1200 

GOA: 25th October -- The number 1098 (pronounced: ten-nine-eight) is a number dedicated to helping children in difficulty throughout India. It is called the national 'Childìline' which is a free emergency phone service which links children in need of care and protection with agencies that are in a position to help.

In Goa, the Salesians of Don Bosco became part of this national network in June, 2000. After studying the implications of tourism in coastal areas it was noticed that children and youth are most vulnerable to exploitation and abuse by the many tourists that visit this beautiful state in western India. A plan was draw up to take action and to guide and protect them. Participating in the national 'Childline' formed part of this project. 

Don Bosco CHILDLINE gives every child a shelter to enjoy his / her basic right to grow in love and freedom. Here children are given the tools to carve out a dignified future for themselves.

The line has been used often and March 2003 has registered more than 1232 cases of various kinds. The cases involve medical assistance, shelter, rescue from abuse and exploitation, repatriation of runaway and missing children, abandoned children, sponsorship for deprived children, child deaths, emotional support, parents seeking advice, etc…

The Director, Fr. Francis Silveira, states: “Despite the many demands of maintaining the childline, we try out best to respond to every child in need and to ensure that there is an integrated effort between governmental and non-governmental organizations  in defending the rights of children everywhere.”

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