Save a child from hunger by Purkal Youth Development Society

Program Update

The quarter started with the winter break, and some groups of children went on excursions across different states. They stayed in simple accommodations, ate well, and excitedly explored the many monuments and sites, enjoying the diverse culture of our country. Children who stayed back with us in the Hostel enjoyed their meals and milk every day. After the school reopened, all beneficiaries continued to be provided nutritious food. They ate sewai, poha, dalia, halwa, kheer, etc. during breakfast. Lunch comprised of seasonal vegetables, legumes and cereals served with chapatis (Indian bread), rice and salads. To ensure a good intake of sugars and minerals, winter fruits like papayas, bananas, grapes, etc. were also fed to each child.

Story from the field

Divyansh recently underwent pyeloplasty as he had a congenital problem with his left kidney and about 70% had already been destroyed. Fortunately, the doctors identified the seriousness of this condition after a minor injury, and he was admitted in the hospital for a week. His left kidney was surgically treated and has now recovered to the extent of about 10%. He resumed his classroom studies but was advised not to participate in sports and games. In time, all his learning gaps were cleared and, naughty as kids are, teachers had to keep reminding him not to do any physical activities due to his surgery. His class teacher, Miss Latika helped him cope with his studies as the final exams approached in March. Classmates helped him with their notes and he received extra help to practice mathematics. Before the final exams, the pipe placed in his kidney for blood circulation was removed. His next appointment is in May, for an X-ray and check-up. With regular nutritious food and our promise of providing blanket healthcare to all children in our care, Divyansh is now a happy kid promoted to class 4. He is doing well and happily participates in sports and games.

Program Update

A new academic session started in early April and we took in more beneficiaries under our care. Over the year, we are operational for 270 days during which all children enjoy 3 meals a day inclusive of breakfast, a balanced start to the day comprising of sewai, poha, dalia, halwa, kheer, etc. Lunch includes leafy green vegetables, legumes and cereals served with rotis (Indian bread) and rice. A mix of diced cucumber, carrot, beetroot and raddish are served as salad with lunch. All children are also fed fruits rich in vitamins and natural sugars.

Over the years we have seen the impact that dietary nourishment makes to a child's development. Coming from homes where resources are weak, most children suffer from nutritional deficiencies when they come under our care. Along with vaccinations and preventive treatment over the course of their first year with us, we also ensure children learn good eating habits. With this we have observed that after a year with us, children's BMIs, blood quality and overall physical and mental stamina improve.

Story from the field

Sneha's father migrated to Dehradun over 25 years ago from Rasoolpur in Uttar Pradesh. Uneducated, he works as an amateur electrician with fluctuating income. The family lives in quarters provided by the house-owner where Sneha's mother performs household chores.

Arpita stays with her family in Purkal Village close to the school campus. Her father, having studied only till class 12th (high school), has worked a variety of assistant jobs to make ends meet. Arpita's mother contributes to the family's income with her wages earned at Stree Shakti, a sister Society that empowers women through skill and entrepreneurial training.

Both girls came to us over 8 years ago, shy and weak. Today we can see the benefits that the nutrition programme has had on them. Sneha speaks confidently and with great expression. She is a great actor and loves to mimic or tease her fellow classmates. Arpita is a gifted and energetic girl. Her dance teacher says that she is one of the best dancers in class, often adding her own style to the steps.

Now in class 7th, these two best friends are promising students of the School, always eager to help others. Their favourite meal is rajma chawal (red beans in Indian curry + rice).