Save a child from hunger

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).