The Kolkata Mary Ward social centre

Hi, I’m Emily Wallace, and I’m running 10km to help change lives in Kolkata (formerly known as Calcutta)!

On July 20th, I’ll be taking part in a 10km run in Malahide to raise €3,500 for the Kolkata Mary Ward Social Centre (KMWSC)—a truly inspiring organisation that supports some of the most vulnerable children in India.

Later next year, I’ll be travelling to Kolkata with my school to volunteer with KMWSC and work directly with these children. I’m asking friends, family, and anyone who believes in the power of education and compassion to sponsor my run and help make a difference.

Why Kolkata?
Kolkata, often called the “City of Joy,” is full of life and culture—but many children there face serious hardships. Some grow up in slums, with little access to education. Others live on the streets or in seasonal brickfields, where their families work long, hard hours for very little. Sadly, many of these children are also at risk of trafficking and exploitation.

That’s where KMWSC comes in. Founded by the Loreto Sisters in 2014, this organisation runs Multi-Activity Centres in slum areas, where children learn the alphabet, numbers, songs, and basic skills to prepare for mainstream school. For street children, they’ve created Rainbow Rooms—safe spaces near Loreto schools that offer early education and care. And in the brickfields, they bring school to the children, setting up simple outdoor classrooms so kids can learn while staying close to their families.

These programmes don’t just teach—they offer hope, safety, and the chance of a better future.

I truly believe in this cause, and I want to do everything I can to help. Every euro raised goes directly to supporting the children and the incredible work of KMWSC. Your donation—big or small—will have a real impact.

Thank you so much for your support