
This area is chosen for many reasons. One, the animators, or the local coordinators, are new to this area, but very energetic. The animators act as teachers that provide education and discipline so severely missing in most slum areas. We can see, feel, and experience the difference in these communities when Sai Maa Vishnu Shakti Trust and ASMITA feed the children here.
I had an interesting discussion with one of the men that was timidly hoping to get a meal after the children were fed. He is properly rebuked by Father Dilraj. This is an important aspect of the feedings, The children are the priority and these feedings are for them. In these areas, everyone is in need. And in India especially, it is very easy to allow exceptions for those in need. However, the Sai Maa Trust and ASMITA are one of the few non-profit or governmental programs that I have witnessed with an integrity and impeccability in ensuring that all funds are distributed for the cause of feeding needy children.
Why is this so important? In these communities, everyone is scrutinizing our actions. They judge every move. Our actions have to match our cause. Sai Maa Vishnu Shakti Trust and ASMITA are there not only to serve the children, but to provide an example. To show the community that there are people that do care for them and will do things the 'right way' according to their principles, words and actions. Examples of caring and right action have a tremendous affect on a community. We can see the results over time. I see it in how the animators are empowered and shine ever more brilliantly. I see it in the community members and in how they behave and respect the staff. But most of all, I see it in the behavior of the children. I see it in the discipline while waiting hours in the heat of the day for their meal and in their interactions with us. I see it in their eagerness to receive us and in their gratefulness for our presence. Today, we are able to feed another 300 children, however it is so much more than Just the One meal that has happened today!