The cornerstone of SAATH’s mission is the community.  Operating as Community Based Organizations, the community has created implemented and managed programs.  Now, to formally connect these CBOs with government schemes and the private sector, SAATH has created the Urban Resource Center.

The URC aims to transform the approach from the NGO model and adopt a market-orientated approach, for self-sustaining development processes. In this model slum residents are market agents in development changes.  In addition, it helps develop formal relationship with clients in the private sector to support the livelihood projects and increase access to goods and services for slum communities - a capable and power market.

URC activity is modelled on a market-oriented approach to poverty reduction.  SAATH recognizes slum residents as capable market agents and an untapped market for the private sector.  They are consumers and producers and owners of human capital.  Slowly the corporate world is waking up to that fact.  The result is better lives for the commuinty, increased revenue for the private sector and more tax dollars for the government.

To date, the community has participated in:

• Slum Networking:  Access to running water and paved roads for 9,000 households in 45 slums
• Slum Electrification:  80% of slum households have legal connections 
• Micro Banking: Established 6 branches with over 10,000 members

For more information about the Urban Resource Centers, please contact Niraj at niraj@saath.org.