Vadodara: A campaign to feed the hungry launched by a city-based youngster has found takers in at least five other towns and cities, a year after a humble beginning in Vadodara.
The 'Bhookh Mitao Campaign' initiated by 31-year-old Darshan Chandan is being replicated by good Samaritans in Adipur, Gandhidham, Nadiad, Halol and Mumbai.
"Our campaign went viral on social media and was picked up by people in Adipur, Gandhidham, Nadiad, Halol and Mumbai.
People saw our work and got inspired to join the campaign," he said.
On Saturday, the team will launch a website and a mobile application to celebrate its first anniversary. "Those wanting to register as volunteers or donate groceries can contact us on the website or through the app," said Heena Raval, one of the volunteers.
"In fact, we are now regularly providing food to nearly 1,000 children from slum areas of the city. The campaign has picked up very well and we now have a large team of volunteers. We have opened centres in six different areas including Samta, Fatehgunj, Akota, Nizampura, Chhani and Waghodia where we feed children on Sunday," Chandan told TOI.
Nearly 400 volunteers including a large team of youngsters have joined the campaign to fight hunger among the slum kids. "We don't accept any cash as donation. Donors are asked to provide groceries or other items," Chandan added.
The campaign is now moving on from providing just food to educating the poor slum children and developing their personality. "Every Sunday, before offering the lunch, we organize several activities like painting, music and dance. We also take them out for movies and joyrides. And soon, our focus will be on sending as many slum kids as possible to schools," Chandan added.
Chandan, who is into shipping business, had launched the campaign on June 7 last year with just six volunteers.