This new program emphasizes the company’s commitment to help improve the lives of people in some of India’s disadvantaged communities, not only through direct financial assistance but also through the engagement of Alcatel-Lucent employees.

The Alcatel-Lucent Foundation has committed a total of US$205,000 to five non governmental organizations (NGOs) in India over the next two years.

The Empower program emphasizes opening up educational opportunities for children and teenagers as well as life skills training for disadvantaged youth, in particular girls and young women.

“The launch of this program underscores one of our key values as a company -- a commitment to social responsibility. We believe corporate social responsibility (CSR) is critical to building a stronger business and vital to a company’s long-term success. Alcatel-Lucent has been part of the Indian business community for more than a quarter of a century and our commitment to this market and the people of India remains strong and focused. Through our CSR efforts we want to help make this community – our community -- better for all of us,” said Vivek Mohan, Managing Director, Alcatel-Lucent India.

The NGOs selected for the grants work with destitute children, young adults and women in Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai. The grants cover a range of programs, some focusing on providing basic necessities such as food, clothing and healthcare and others arranging for primary and secondary education as well as vocational and life skills training. In addition to providing funding, Alcatel-Lucent employees will volunteer their time and expertise to these NGOs to help them in various initiatives.

“The Alcatel-Lucent Foundation is pleased to encourage the work these organizations are doing to help some of India’s disadvantaged children get a sense of the possibilities that might be open to them with the right education and support,” said Beatrice Tassot, Alcatel-Lucent Foundation executive director. “We look forward to working with them in their efforts to improve the lives of these young people and develop successful young citizens for the future.”