During the Covid-19 epidemic, we became acutely aware of the challenges migrant worker communities in Bangalore have to endure.
From food to clothing to shelter, just making a living itself seemed like an insurmountable challenge for many families.
But the children were the most affected.
The Tragic Accident
Because the parents were forced to find work everyday or risk malnutrition, and because schools don't accept children below 5 years of age, the children were left to fend or themselves in their settlements.
Sometimes the elder children would try keeping an eye on the younger ones.
One day, a brother and sister were playing with each other when they ran into a nearby apartment complex, giggling and trying to catch one another.
Because they were unsupervised, they fell into the swimming pool and tragically drowned.
This was totally preventable.
Unfortunately, stories like this are far too common among these communities.
How to Help the Children?
While big corporates now provide children's care facilities, these migrant worker communities may be the ones in even greater need.
School systems help take care of children while their parents are away at work and impact critical knowledge and life skills to help the families break out of the cycle of poverty.
But despite these clear advantages, parents hesitate to send the children to school... unless midday meals are provided.
So how do we help the children? The answer was clear - ensure healthy, balanced midday meals everyday.
Rallying the Community
With the need identified, the next step was to rally the community for support.
Along with Pavitraka Charitable Trust, through fundraising campaigns, donation drives, and awareness campaigns, we were able to raise enough funds to make a real difference - the midday meal program has been ongoing in two free schools for less privileged children for two years now.
The response from the community was overwhelming, showing just how much people care about the future of their children.
Providing Sustainable Solutions
Empowering these two schools was not about a quick fix - it was about creating a sustainable solution.
We worked closely with the school administrations to implement plant-based kitchen programs that would benefit the students and teachers for years to come. From teaching cooking methods to providing groceries every month for two years, we were able to help not only ensure regular meals but healthy, whole food plant based meals.
Seeing the Impact
As the Annadanam initiative took shape, the impact on the two schools was heartwarming.
Parents were more willing to send their children to the schools.
The children were safer with more access to resources and and support.
As Amar, one of the school Principals put it, "Witnessing the transformation in these children's lives over the past decade has been incredibly rewarding. I have had dropouts passing 10th and 12th and a few doing their graduation."
We are humbled to be able to contribute to this mission.
Looking Towards the Future
The success story of Sampoorna Ahara Annadanam serves as a reminder of the power of community and the impact that a group of dedicated individuals can have on future generations.
By coming together and taking action, we can empower schools to create a better tomorrow for all.
Feeding the future is not just about providing meals - it's about nourishing young minds with education, support, and opportunities.
As one community leader said, "When we see your meals reach our school, we are happy that the children are fed, but it is much more than that - we have Hope for a better tomorrow."
Let's continue to empower schools and communities for a brighter future for all.