Rugmark Foundation
The RUGMARK organization provides a certification trademark, which assures importers and buyers that their products (carpets) have been manufactured/exported by a company which has committed itself to work without illegal child labor, and which is subject to an effective surveillance mechanism.
Empowering Initiatives by Rugmark Foundation
Education
The Foundation operates several schools, including RM Balashraya (the rehab center), across locations like Devnathpur-Lakhamanpatti, Bhodohi, Jagapur-Bhadohi, Barhi Newada-Varanasi, Handia-Allahabad, Cherapur-Bhadohi, and Vijaypur-Mirzapur, serving over 2300 children from carpet-weaving families. These schools aim to prevent child labor by providing formal education, vocational training, and holistic development opportunities.
Balashraya
RUGMARK Foundation India's Balashrya center in Uttar Pradesh provides shelter and care for former child laborers rescued from carpet weaving. The center offers free boarding, education, vocational training, uniforms, and books. It integrates local children as day-scholars to foster a friendly environment and encourages a healthy attitude towards society and life.
Healthcare
The Foundation organizes medical camps in the carpet belt to provide free health check-ups and medicine distribution for the weaving community. These camps address the weavers' health issues, often neglected due to time constraints or distant health centers. This van offers basic medical facilities, catering to the health needs of the weavers' families and RUGMARK school students in remote rural areas.
Community Development
RUGMARK opened a Carpet Weaving Training Centre for women in Gopiganj, Bhadohi, in late 2002, addressing the limited participation of house-women in the carpet-weaving industry. This center provides training for girls and women over 14, equipping them with skills to support their families financially. Trainees receive a stipend during their training, offering financial relief and a break from their daily routines.
