Ashalayam, a Ministry for and with Street Children in Kolkata was begun in 1985 by Fr. Anthony Thaiparambil. It commenced with work among the children of Howrah Railway Station and a night shelter for them at Pilkhana, Howrah. Gradually as the number of children increased the shelter was shifted in 1991 to the present location at Kadamtala, Howrah. 

It has three sub Centers in Kolkata, Bhattanagar and Kalyani. 

Throughout the years, the children at Ashalayam have been imparted with various skills and handicrafts, including candle making, tea packing, chalk making, clip making, painting cards, envelope making, welding, carpentry, bakery, mobile repairing, farming, salon services, beautician training, and more. Unfortunately, the coronavirus pandemic disrupted many of these activities.

Despite the setbacks, ongoing efforts are being made to revive some of these initiatives. For instance, in Pilkhana, tuition is provided to slum children, and a  beautician course has been initiated. Currently, all Ashalayam children attend different schools, and easy admissions for VTC courses are available in Mirpara, Nitika, Liluah, Delhi, and ITI DBPC. Post-10th grade, many boys proceed to Bakherhat for class 11 and part-time training, leading to eventual job placements. Approximately 1200 children are cared for in various hostels.