Aim of the Project
The primary goal of Project SANKALPA, held on Friday, July 18, 2021, was to provide immediate and substantial ration support to the Embassy of Hope orphanage in Kaikhali, Rajarhat, Kolkata. Following the earlier “Day-Out” initiative, which temporarily aided the orphanage, it became evident that the need for consistent food support was urgent. This project was designed to bridge that gap and ensure the children had access to sufficient nourishment.
What We Achieved
Led by Project Head Ritarshi Datta and approved by Mr. Udayaditya Parbat, this project demonstrated a highly organized, compassionate, and swift response to a deepening crisis. Backed by a budget of ₹25,000 (+ ₹5,000 contingency), the project provided comprehensive grocery support to 15 children and the orphanage staff, many of whom had been struggling quietly through the lockdown period.
A fundraiser launched on July 4, 2021, received tremendous support from the community, allowing the Rigel Foundation team to procure and deliver a wide range of essential food items, including:
- Puffed Rice (50 kg)
- Rice (60 kg)
- Daal (20 kg total)
- Refined Oil & Mustard Oil (5+5 packets)
- Sooji (20 packets)
- Noodles (20 packets)
- Biscuits (10 packets)
- Snacks & Health Drinks (20 packets)
- Other essential food materials
All items were personally purchased and delivered by volunteers prior to the event day, ensuring quality control and timely logistics.
Key Outcomes & Project Highlights
- Direct Relief: A large and carefully planned grocery package helped the orphanage replenish their food supplies for the coming weeks.
- Empathy in Action: The project brought attention to the inspiring resilience of the orphanage owner, Mr. Suvojit, who had selflessly supported both his family and the 15 children before seeking assistance.
- Volunteer Involvement: Rigel Foundation’s volunteers played a critical role in both logistics and execution, ensuring every detail was handled with care.
- Community Impact: The overwhelming response to the fundraiser highlighted the power of community-driven change and reinforced public trust in the foundation’s mission.
Conclusion
Project SANKALPA is a powerful testament to Rigel Foundation’s ongoing commitment to community care and timely humanitarian aid. More than just a ration drive, it was a pledge—a sankalpa—to stand beside vulnerable groups not only during crises but for the long term. The support extended to Embassy of Hope during this critical time not only filled kitchens but also strengthened relationships and renewed hope. This initiative reflects our belief that no child should ever go to bed hungry, and every small act of kindness contributes to a larger movement of care and change.
