Millstreet Community School Students Return from Life-Changing Kolkata Trip
This morning, Millstreet Community School welcomed back five of its students—Lilly Cassidy, Christopher Philpott, Saoirse Kiely, Hannah Casey, and Katie O'Keeffe—along with their teacher, Mary Doherty, after an unforgettable trip to Kolkata, India. The group was part of a larger delegation of 67 students who spent a week learning about and helping with the work of the Hope Foundation, which supports children and families in need.
A Week of Learning, Culture, and Compassion
On their first day, they visited the Sickline Nabo Asha Centre, a project that helps children stay in school. From the beginning, the students were excited to learn and help while enjoying their time in Kolkata.
Day 2 was busy with a visit to Saini International School. They were welcomed with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony and a dance performance. They also tried Alpana painting and played a football match, where Team Hope won 3-1 thanks to a great goal from Christopher. A tree was planted on behalf of MCS. Later, they visited a Life Skills Centre, a girls’ home, did some Sari shopping, and joined a dance class.
On Day 3, the group attended a 6 AM mass at Mother Teresa’s house. They then took a city tour, visiting Eden Gardens, Princess Ghat, and Howrah Bridge. They also visited the Ashar Alo girls' home and the beautiful Birla Temple, learning more about India’s culture.
Day 4 included a visit to Chitpur Crèche, supported by Cork man Eddie O’Sullivan. They also visited a Jain temple and spent time at the Ashirbad boys’ home, where they enjoyed interacting with the children.
Day 5 started with a visit to the Hope Hospital, which is supported by Irish businesses. The group also visited "Brian’s Way," a Special Needs Centre. That evening, they took part in a Sari Night and dance competition, where Millstreet Community School came third. The founder of the Hope Foundation, Maureen Forrest, was also there. Ms. O’Doherty joined an emergency Night Round ambulance visit to see the foundation’s work in action.
On their last day, the students visited Bhagat Crèche and School and Chetla Nabo Asha—two of the 57 projects run by the Hope Foundation. Before heading home, they had a quick visit to the local markets.
A Journey to Remember
This trip was not just a school visit but a special and emotional experience. The students and their teacher have returned to Millstreet with a new understanding of the world and a greater appreciation for different cultures.
Millstreet Community School is very proud of Lilly, Christopher, Saoirse, Hannah, and Katie for their kindness, enthusiasm, and willingness to help others. Their journey to Kolkata has helped them grow as people and shown them how they can make a difference in the world.
Welcome home!
