In this quarter (Oct 1 2023 - Dec 31 2023), we were able to cover a lot of ground in terms of student engagement.
Activities for the quarter 1. "Amma Ki Vandanam" (Salutations to mother) - In Nov 2023, we invited mothers of the students to different centers and had them touch the feet of their mothers. The intention was to make the children understand the efforts and sacrifices. Many children started crying for being rude and disrespectful to their mothers and taking them for granted all these years. The children vowed to love and respect their mothers more and be of help to her in all ways possible. This event brought a big change in the minds of the children.
2. Blanket and Sweater Distribution - As winter peaked in Tirupati in December, we requested some of the parents to donate small amounts of money for children who do not have blankets or sweaters. It was a way to engage the parents in individual social responsibility. Though they themselves are not very resourceful, they were magnanimous in giving.
3. Nutrition Drive - While all children in the program get snacks everyday, we identified three severely malnourished children who had very low immunity and often falling sick. Their Hemoglobin levels were less than 7. We again requested some parents to donate small quantities of jaggery and nuts for these three children. In about 5 weeks, we noticed a marked improvement in their health and hygiene.
4. Series of lectures from Chinmaya Mission and Impact Foundation - These organizations have been conducting regular sessions on morals and culture. The main focus is on changing the behavior and mindset of our children.
5. Reading program - The children are reading small story books regularly and are sharing summary and review of these books in their peer groups.
6.Festivals and Celebrations - Our children are regularly participating in extracurricular activities like sports, games, cultural programs like celebration of festivals like Dasara, Deepavali and Christmas