Donations to fight hunger among vulnerable populations in two countries.
Indian American nonprofit Indiaspora has raised a million dollars to fight hunger among vulnerable populations affected by Covid-19 in the US and India.
Its “ChaloGive for Covid-19” initiative met its initial goal of $1 million, just 10 days after its launch thanks to an outpour of support from the diaspora community.
The contributions given are sent to two beneficiary organizations, Feeding America in the US and Goonj in India. Feeding America has secured 4.7 million meals in the US through Indiaspora’s initiative, as each $1 contributed secures 10 meals through Feeding America’s network of 200 food banks, according to an Indiaspora press release.
RELATED: Indiaspora raises $500,000 for Covid relief efforts in U.S. and India (April 10, 2020)
Goonj, which is using the funds to provide food, dry ration and hygiene kits to displaced migrant laborers in parts of eighteen states in India, has been able to provide sustenance for 106,000 migrants and their families through this initiative so far. Each $20 contributed to Goonj feeds a family of four for 7-10 days.
Just a short while after raising $500,000, the organization was able to reach its initial goal of $1,000,000.
“There was a huge desire in our community to help during this crisis, and we provided an easy way to give. The Indian diaspora stood up and rose to the occasion when the ultimate time of reckoning arrived,” said Indiaspora’s Executive Director, Sanjeev Joshipura.
One of the largest contributions to the initiative came from Bay-area based volunteer group Aram Sei, whose vision is to support grassroots charities worldwide with specific focus on education and healthcare.
“Our team of twelve members is proud to support the ChaloGive fundraiser initiative that helps us make a direct impact to those in need,” said Sangeetha Lakshminarayanan, President and Founder of Aram Sei. “We feel fortunate to be able to make a difference in our country of origin and the country we have embraced and made our home.”