This Diwali, Add Purpose To Your Gifting

With all that light and happiness around us this Diwali, isn’t it a reminder that we should pass it on and be the beacon in someone else’s life? Gifts for the festive season are foremost on everyone’s mind! Why don’t you do things a little differently this year? As we celebrate goodness and light, look beyond and spread your wings to help those in need.

There are numerous NGOs and organisations in India that are dedicated to a diverse range of causes. From education and healthcare to environmental conservation and women's overall betterment, there is a scope for contribution in every aspect. If you’re wondering where to begin your journey of gifting with a purpose, these remarkable organisations are the driving force behind positive change in our society. Your support has the power to transform the lives of countless individuals, helping us embody the spirit of goodness and compassion. Make sure to visit their websites for more information on whether it aligns with your purpose, and how to become a part of their journey.

1. SEAL Ashram

In the city of dreams, where countless people arrive to chase their hopes and ambitions, we often celebrate the remarkable success stories. However, it's important to remember the unfortunate many who find themselves helpless and homeless, navigating the unforgiving streets of this metropolis. SEAL, an inspiring NGO, is on a heartfelt mission to rescue destitute and missing children from the bustling railway platforms and streets of Mumbai and its suburbs.

SEAL rescues individuals, regardless of age or gender, whether they are sick, lost, or forsaken. Their mission is to give them a fresh start in life. At the ashram, basic needs like shelter, food, clothing, healthcare, and education are taken care of. SEAL also works diligently to reconnect these individuals with their families and their homes.

Currently, it is home to 276 underprivileged individuals. Among them are mainly HIV Positive and TB patients, those facing mental challenges, individuals with physical disabilities, the visually impaired, and others. Besides contributing, you can also visit their ashram and interact with the children. The Diwali gifts of time and care will help cushion some of their sorrows and make the festival special.

Website- https://www.sealindia.org/

2. MESCO

What better than gifting someone knowledge and the means to education this Diwali?

MESCO, a secular trust registered with the Charity Commissioner of Mumbai, is a dedicated effort towards serving humanity. The organisation initially focused on the cause of ’education for all‘ as a fundamental pillar of human development, but later expanded its scope to include medical assistance and poverty relief.

Annually, MESCO reaches out to more than 15,000 families, employing a well-thought-out combination of carefully planned schemes, programmes, activities, and institutions. Their approach has always been grounded in ethical values. They act as a conduit to channel resources from those who are willing to give, to those who need it the most.

Today, MESCO is trusted by a broad spectrum of kind-hearted individuals, families, foundations, charities, and corporations, both within the country and abroad. Their relentless dedication aims to bring happiness and positive change into the lives of many.

Website: https://www.mescotrust.org/

3. Akshay Patra Foundation

The Akshaya Patra Foundation is renowned for its significant impact, as it serves nutritious mid-day meals to more than two million children attending government schools throughout India. Its primary mission involves the extensive implementation of the Government of India's PM POSHAN Initiative, previously known as the Mid-Day Meal Scheme. Through unwavering dedication, they ensure that children not only receive regular meals but also foster increased school attendance, ultimately leading to enhanced education and brighter prospects for the future.

Through the establishment of an extensive network of kitchens and collaborative efforts with the government of India, state governments, UT administrations, corporate entities, and philanthropic individuals, the Akshaya Patra Foundation has created a robust system to address this pressing social issue on an immense scale.

Website: www.akshayapatra.org

4. Maitri

The true essence of festivals is felt in being around family and loved ones. Widowhood often comes with a unique set of challenges though, and feeling the void of family is just one of them. Maitri is dedicated to ensuring Identity, Dignity, and Respect for all the populations they serve. One such population they focus on is elderly widows.

After the loss of their husbands, ageing widows face various forms of subordination and abuse due to their identity as women, widows, and their advancing age. Many widows become victims of domestic violence, often at the hands of their own family members, including sons and relatives. They are left abandoned, homeless, and destitute, forced to live on the streets of Vrindavan, resorting to begging for survival.

In response to this pressing issue, Maitri has established old age homes for widows in Vrindavan, providing them with a sanctuary, a place where they can live with a sense of identity, dignity, and respect. You can donate financially to Maitri or also visit their widows’ homes to spend time interacting with their inmates. The experience would not only make them feel special, but will also give you new perspectives on celebrations and life.

Website: https://www.maitriindia.org/

5. Teach For India

Established in 2009, Teach for India (TFI) is a vital part of the global ‘Teach for All’ network, deeply dedicated to narrowing the educational gap within India. This remarkable non-profit organisation has shouldered the formidable responsibility of addressing educational inequality, ensuring that every child in India has the opportunity to access high-quality education.

TFI identifies and recruits young, passionate individuals with a zeal for teaching, placing them in underprivileged schools to serve as full-time teachers. These extraordinary individuals are known as ’Fellows‘ and embark on a mission to transform the lives of their students while instilling a lifelong commitment to achieving educational equity.

Contributing to ‘Teach for India’ is a way to wholeheartedly support their vision of educational equity and empower India's youth through the gift of quality education.

Website: https://www.teachforindia.org/