Loreto Sisters’ Social Centre in Kolkata Trains Women for Livelihood Opportunities

Kolkata, West Bengal, March 10, 2026: A small yet meaningful bakery training initiative in Kolkata is helping women from economically vulnerable communities gain practical skills and move toward sustainable livelihood opportunities.

The programme is conducted by the Kolkata Mary Ward Social Centre (KMWSC), a social outreach initiative run by the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary, commonly known as the Loreto Sisters. Through its skill development programmes, the centre continues to empower women and marginalised groups with education and vocational training.

On March 9, the centre’s Bakery Unit organised a certification programme for three trainees who successfully completed their training in baking. The ceremony recognised their efforts in acquiring practical skills and encouraged them to explore employment opportunities or start small income-generating ventures.

Guided by the theme “From learning to livelihood—baking skills that build brighter futures,” the initiative aims to transform training into meaningful economic opportunities. For the participants, receiving the certificate marked an important milestone, boosting their confidence to use their newly acquired skills for independent earning.

Established in June 2014, the Kolkata Mary Ward Social Centre grew out of outreach programmes initiated by Loreto Day School Sealdah and other Loreto institutions working among socially and economically disadvantaged communities.

The centre focuses on supporting women, children, migrant families, slum communities and at-risk youth through a rights-based and participatory approach rooted in the values of love, freedom, honesty and justice.

Over the years, KMWSC has implemented a range of development initiatives across West Bengal and neighbouring areas. These include women’s livelihood programmes, vocational training, child protection initiatives and community development projects. The centre also operates nutrition support programmes, including a “Food ATM” designed to assist individuals and families facing food insecurity.

The centre is named after Mary Ward (1585–1645), whose vision emphasised education and social engagement as powerful means of empowering women and uplifting communities.

Through initiatives such as the bakery training programme, the Kolkata Mary Ward Social Centre continues to provide skill-based opportunities for individuals from vulnerable backgrounds, while strengthening its mission of promoting dignity, self-reliance and social inclusion.

By Catholic Connect Reporter