​Asha congratulates Friends of Asha- GB
​Dr Louise Dolan on her marriage

​Dr Louise Dolan is a senior Consultant in Rheumatology in the UK. She has been a friend of Asha for many years, and has been to Asha on a number of occasions. 

I have the best news ever! She just got married to Matt, and they asked all their friends to make donations to Asha instead of giving them wedding presents. 

What a wonderful way to live. 

Warmest congratulations Louise and Matt for a life together filled with love, laughter and happiness. Thank you for your generosity especially at this time when the poor are going through so much suffering.

​Asha graduate Tushar awarded the Gold Medal for Student of the Year

​Hello folks, Asha student Tushar begins his Masters in International Relations from University of Sydney ( online from India for now) on August 2nd. 

He will need our support and good wishes as he begins his journey. 

And there’s some wonderful news! He was awarded the Gold Medal for Student of the Year from his college at Delhi University for the year 2020.  

Congratulations 🎊🎉 to Tushar!

​Asha student Sugra receives an urgent healthcare intervention by Asha

Hello friends, yesterday as I was running my clinic on Zoom, I suddenly heard that Asha university student Sugra( whose English teacher is Asha USA Trustee Jean Peteet ) was lying in bed quite sick. I called for her to come to the Seelampur clinic. It was found that she was really pale and her BP was 80/50. She was filling dizzy and. could hardly stand. I asked Asha team member Shiv to take her to the hospital emergency immediately. Her father refused saying there was nothing wrong with her. I prevailed upon her father and Shiv took her to the emergency of a public hospital in the vicinity. The Junior doctor there refused to examine her or admit her. I then spoke with him over the phone and said to him that if he did not immediately give her IV fluids and stabilize her,  I would be forced to take the matter up with higher authorities. He became apprehensive after the conversation, and admitted her. Shiv and Aditya, both Asha warriors were with her all the time. 

In the meanwhile, I spoke with a colleague at a larger hospital, requesting for him to admit and investigate her, and he did that. 

He told the family that she required immediate blood transfusion but that she was AB positive and they did not have this blood group in the blood bank. 

The Asha warriors immediately went to the Red Cross blood bank, donated one unit of blood each, and they gave them 2 units of AB positive blood in exchange, for Sugra. 

She has now received blood transfusion, and will be further investigated to find out the cause of the anemia. 

What would have happened to Sugra without Asha? She could have gone into hypoxia and had a system shut down if we had not intervened immediately. So many obstacles from family, from hospitals. The Never Give Up spirit is critical for change and transformation and healing. It is a hallmark of true compassion.

Donate for Asha’s Covid-19 emergency response: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha students in slums begin their online internships with Macquarie Group

​Hello friends, Macquarie Group initiated a virtual Community Internship Program for our students, thanks to high speed internet in many of our communities. 

To give you an idea, some of the areas of learning cover 
 
- business overview 
- banking fundamentals 
- computer software skills
- basic email writing and communication 
- interview skills and resume building 
- risk and compliance training
- professional social media platform and building virtual network 
- teamwork and collaboration 
- time management and work life balance 
- MS Outlook and MS Word
- presentation skills 
- problem solving and decision making
- MS Excel
- interpersonal skills and conflict management 
- corporate etiquette and ethics and values in the workplace

What a wonderful opportunity! Thank you Manish, Head of Macquarie Gurugram and the team at Macquarie for working so hard to make this possible.

​Asha graduate Usha speaks at zoom webinar organized by Friends of Asha-Australia

Friends of Asha-Australia organized a zoom webinar to host Dr Kiran Martin and Asha graduate Usha on 6th July, 2021.

Here is a video where Asha graduate Usha shared first-hand accounts from slum residents during the webinar and detailed the interventions Asha is making to save lives in communities during this pandemic.

This online event was highly successful as hundreds of Asha supporters worldwide joined in to hear about Asha’s emergency response to covid-19 in the slums.
​
Donate for Asha’s Covid-19 emergency response: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: Kalkaji’s Municipal Councillor visits Asha’s Kalkaji slum community

Hi everyone, I’ve been encouraging all locally elected representatives to be invited to visit the Asha communities. These relationships are critical to the living conditions and needs of slum residents.

Here is a Municipal Councillor, elected rep of a large area in and around Kalkaji. He is giving out Asha grocery bags at the Asha Centre. He feels respected and appreciated, and in turn realizes the value of the Asha team and their wonderful efforts. He announced that he would always be available to Asha and to the community for problems related to sanitation etc. that fall under his jurisdiction. What a great ally we have found in him.
​
Donate for Asha’s Covid-19 emergency response: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha celebrates the work of Asha nurses and paramedics during the second wave

Our wonderfully brave, passionate and competent nurses and paramedics gathered at my home to celebrate how they saved hundreds of lives during this second wave.

We salute them all for their loving and dedicated service to the poor. They roamed every lane and every street looking for sick covid patients and looked after all patients in the comfort of their homes. The passion in their care and follow up was admired by one and all.

They often came back late in the evening, at night, and in the early hours of the morning to see how the patients were doing. Our phones rang all evening and all night with patient related emergencies and need for urgent treatment interventions.

​Cheers to our nurses and paramedics.

Donate for Asha’s Covid-19 emergency response: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha graduate Shiv completes his First Year of Masters in Social Work

​Asha graduate Shiv from Seelampur Asha community completes his First Year of Masters in Social Work with good grades!

We are celebrating together at my home tonight. He did it in the English medium that was really hard for him. However, the guidance, teaching and mentoring of Victoria Thampi, Chair of FOA Ireland has made it possible, along with his own hard work. Social Work is his passion.
​
He will soon begin the second year of his Masters. Before we know, he will have a double Masters, one in Political Science and the other in Social Work. He is a fantastic Asha Team member and is continuing to transform many lives. He has the wonderful capacity to influence young people and inspire them to reach great heights.

​Dr Kiran visits Kusumpur Pahari slum community and runs a clinic

​Hi folks, 

I visited Kusumpur today. The team and Warriors gave me a warm welcome. I was so happy to see the IT Lab functioning, with our university students using it for college assignments, projects and research. The students were telling me how much of a difference it is already making in this digital age where access to the internet through laptops has happened for the first time in Kusumpur. Macquarie Gurgaon has provided us with the funds for this new project. Thank you Manish and Team Macquarie Gurgaon for your kind assistance. I met Amritesh today and he is in charge of the lab. He will make sure that it is used optimally.
​
At Kusumpur , I ran the clinic where I saw patients with Bronchial Asthma, COPD, Diabetes and Hypertension. Most patients who had been taking treatment from government centres and private health care institutions, had run out of medication and had no access to their health care providers. The health team led by Nurse Practitioner Pushpa, was doing an excellent job of treating all patients as per Asha’s protocols. All patients under her care were feeling much better. Treatment without any cost and good follow up has meant that they are back on track. The Warriors are also visiting them in their homes. 
Thank you Friends of Asha for providing us with the resources for medicines, inhalers, nebulizers, glucometers, and all essentials to treat the patients. Some patients are very poor and the team has given them groceries as well as financial help. Where would they have gone without Asha?

Donate for Asha’s Covid-19 emergency response: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha team and Asha warriors work tirelessly to get every slum dweller vaccinated

When a vaccination drive began in CR das school located in Seelampur, North East Delhi, our Asha team member Shiv went there to speak to the person in charge of running the vaccination centre. Shiv met with him in person and explained the work that Asha does in the slums, he spoke about our Asha warriors who are working tirelessly every day to spread awareness with their slum communities.

Shiv requested the person in charge to allow our group of 14 slum dwellers to receive their vaccination on that day. However, his request was denied, he was informed that there is a very high shortage of vaccines at the moment. However, Shiv did not give up. 

The Asha team in Seelampur had already formed a good relationship with the councillor of Seelampur, Mr Haji Afzal, through Asha's work done in the first and second covid wave. Shiv went to meet him immediately and informed him of the situation. Mr Haji Afzal informed his team about the shortage of vaccines and asked that more vaccines be sent urgently. 

Mr Haji Afzal also made sure to visit the vaccination centre along with Shiv and Asha warriors. He was present there till the last member of our group received their vaccination. Shiv and his team were successful in getting everyone vaccinated in 1 day! 

This recent story highlights the dedication and bravery of the Asha team and Asha warriors who are working tirelessly in the slums to get every slum dweller vaccinated. Asha is making sure that each and every slum dweller receive their vaccination immediately. 

Donate for Asha’s Covid-19 emergency response: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3 

​From the ground in India- A Zoom Webinar

​Join us from on the ground in Delhi in a Zoom Webinar to hear from Dr Kiran Martin and Usha, an experienced journalist.

They will give first-hand accounts from slum residents and detail the interventions Asha is making to save lives in communities during this pandemic.

Date: Tue, 6 July 2021
Time: 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM AEST
This is a FREE EVENT, secure your tickets at- https://www.melbournepressclub.com/article/from-the-ground-in-india 

​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: Anna Nagar MLA visits Asha’s Anna Nagar slum community

Today the MLA of Anna Nagar Praveen Kumar visited Anna Nagar community at Asha’s invitation. He was visibly moved on hearing  stories from the Asha warriors on ways in which the community was being given full support during such a hard time. He gave out grocery bags on behalf of Asha, and encouraged everyone to get vaccinated. An existing friendship became deeper and richer. As an influential member of the ruling party in Delhi, so much good can be done for the community by him as we work together. He is a wonderful person and a hardworking and sincere MLA.

Donate for Asha’s Covid-19 emergency response: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: A day in the fight against Covid-19- How young Asha volunteers are keeping Delhi’s slums safe

Thank you Quartz for covering Asha’s work in the slums.
​
https://qz.com/india/2015174/asha-ngo-workers-help-control-covid-cases-in-delhi-slums/

​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: Asha treats relapsed Tuberculosis patients in the slums

There were a large number of TB patients in the Asha communities, most of whom got treated. Since Covid has spread in the slums, a number of treated patients have relapsed. They have become sputum positive again and are really sick. Some have been referred to TB hospitals for admission. That in itself is really difficult these days. Others are being treated and monitored at home by Asha.

Donate for Asha’s Covid-19 emergency response: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Volunteer to teach IELTS to Asha students

​Hello Asha Supporters,

Dr Kiran’s programme to get Asha students into universities outside India is amazing! Students have so far received scholarships to go to London, Sydney, Canberra, and Melbourne. But they have to pass the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) exam run by Cambridge University to be able to study in English-speaking countries. Asha needs more IELTS teachers urgently! 

Are you a qualified EFL Teacher, who can teach IELTS? Want to be a part of this life-changing project by volunteering to teach IELTS to Asha students? 

If so, please send an email to ayesha.seymour@asha-india.org

​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: Asha distributes grocery parcels to the needy living by the river bed slum

Dr Kiran: ''Hi everyone, some of you may have heard of the families living in great poverty on a dried river bed near the Interstate Bus Terminal of the city. 

The men are mostly cycle rickshaw pullers who have been out of work for over two months. The families live on mud in temporary shacks. There is no electricity, no toilets, and no roads. 

This time I asked the team to invite the local MLA (equal to a US Congressman, or a locally elected representative of the legislative branch of the government), and involve the MLA in the process of handing out grocery bags. 
 
The poor were comforted, they and their children got enough to eat for some days, and an important relationship was built with the MLA, whose wife represented him. She was really happy to get involved. Hopefully she will be able to help provide basic services to the residents who have suffered neglect at the hands of the authorities for so many years."

Donate for Asha’s Covid-19 emergency response: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: Asha provides slum dwellers with essential needs as they face massive unemployment

​Dr Kiran: "Hello everyone, both the first and second wave of the pandemic in India have seen massive unemployment among the urban poor. They had not even recovered from the effects of the first wave, when the second wave struck. 

The poor therefore have no money for food, for health care, or for rent if they don’t have a shanty of their own. 

If Asha had not been there to help them, they would have had to borrow money from money lenders to buy food. The interest rate is 60- 120% per annum. 

They would have had to borrow money from money lenders for treatment of illnesses as well. The public hospitals are all only for Covid patients. Private ones are impossible to afford. Without Asha, not only would they have borrowed money, but would have been cheated by quacks and local healers. 

Many people would have been thrown out of their homes if they could not pay the rent. 

The public distribution system (PDS) is terribly flawed, with about half the urban poor having no access to food subsidies.

Thank you for helping Asha provide them with food, health care, and money, to meet their essential needs. And thank you for helping us comfort them when they are so worried about their next meal. 

In the long term, may we help them get on the path of recovery, resilience and self reliance."

Donate for Asha’s Covid-19 emergency response: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: Asha slum communities receive compassionate care from Asha in this pandemic

​Dr Kiran: "The Asha family continues its work in the slums through such important partnerships with all of you during this pandemic ravaging the communities.

So desperate are they during these times that they do not have the capacity to provide food and medical care to their families. Many middle class and wealthy Indians have treated them even worse than when there was no pandemic, being apathetic and uninterested in their plight. The poor are already judged harshly by them, and this lack of care adds a further blow to their already compromised dignity and worth. 

Compassionate care given with respect to everyone in the community, not expressed as a feeling of pity, but as empathy towards a brother or a sister in distress, must reach out to all. They must feel fully valued and fully loved. 

Thank you that we can be co-workers and collaborators in our convictions and in our efforts as we stand with them in their suffering."

Donate for Asha’s Covid-19 emergency response: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: Slum communities saved from starvation by Asha

​Dr Kiran: "Hello everyone, the team and Warriors are finding many individuals and families that are already in starvation mode or on the verge of starvation because of the extended lockdown. 

We are sending groceries and other essentials to them through the warriors. 

Many have been eating just plain wheat chapati with watery lentils only if they have cooking gas. They are just not getting more than 400 calories in a day. 

So what happens to a person if they continue in starvation mode? Their body tissue will waste away, and the body will begin to feed on itself. 

The body cannot regulate it’s temperature, kidney function is impaired, and the immune system weakens greatly. Further, all the internal organs begin to shrink and shrivel. The person becomes irritable or apathetic, and can’t concentrate.

When the body consumes its own heart muscle, disruptions in heart rhythm occur. 

Once the protein stores begin to get depleted, death is not far. 

Providing grocery parcels and high calorie foods is critical if such patients are to be saved. 

We must not let a single person in Asha communities go into starvation. The children, women and the elderly are the most vulnerable. 

Together we can make sure everyone has enough food and essentials during this horrendous pandemic. Thank you for your generosity. Let’s keep up the wonderful work."

Donate for Asha’s Covid-19 emergency response: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: Asha continues to distribute grocery parcels to the neediest in the slums

Dr Kiran: "Grocery parcels being given to the poor, the destitute, the elderly, families with young children, patients who have or had Covid, with kindness and compassion."

Donate for Asha’s Covid-19 emergency response: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: Asha team and Asha warriors monitor covid positive patients in the slums

​Dr Kiran: ''The Asha team and Warriors rigorously monitoring Covid positive patients every day. Patients wait anxiously for their arrival. They and their families live in fear of the illness getting severe and they dread needing a hospital bed. The daily news on television is frightening. 

The team comforts and consoles them, explains their findings to them, helps them understand the interpretation of their vitals, and the treatment being given. There is so much relief when patients and their families are told that they are getting better. They are always grateful. Some are upset because they don’t want to become victims of stigma and be ostracized by their communities.''

Donate for Asha’s Covid-19 emergency response: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​BBC Radio speaks to Dr Kiran, Asha student Tushar and David Briggs of Discovery Schools Academics Trust

​Asha has been associated with Discovery Schools Academy Trust since the past 10 years through Asha supporter David Briggs who has been leading this team. This past decade has resulted in various school visits from the UK to Asha, resulting in a wonderful and strong relationship. 

In the midst of this second wave, Discovery Schools of Academics Trust have once again lent their support to Asha's work by completing a 100 lap challenge in their school field throughout the term. BBC Radio Leicester spoke to Dr Kiran, Asha student Tushar and David Briggs regarding this wonderful initiative taken by young school children.

Thank you to the children and teaching staff of Discovery Schools Academics Trust and Asha supporter David Briggs for continuously organizing virtual events and fundraisers to support the work of Asha.

Donate for Asha’s Covid-19 emergency response: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: Urgent video update from Dr Kiran Martin on Covid Crisis in Asha Delhi slums

We are continuing to fight a battle with Covid; the crisis in the slums is devastating. 

Here is a link to a video recorded by Asha’s Founder and Director Dr Kiran Martin. 

This is her most recent update. 

We request you to watch it and share it with your families, friends and networks. Let us all work together to save the lives of the poor living in the slums of Delhi. 

Donate for Asha’s Covid-19 emergency response: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

ASHA COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: Asha TREATS PATIENTS in new Slum communities

​Dr Kiran: "Hello friends, we have decided that we will reach out to as many other slums in the city as we can and help sick patients who have nowhere to go. 

Just as I imagined, our teams already began to find sick patients in these new slum communities.

This is a slum community in a different part of Seelampur.  The team treated the sick, spread awareness, and shared contact details with the slum leaders.''

Donate for Asha’s Covid-19 emergency response: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: Asha revives a severe covid patient in the slums

​Dr Kiran: ''Here is a 32 year old male patient who is a known patient of Hypertension for the past one year.

He tested positive for Covid and came to us with difficulty in breathing and uncontrolled hypertension. 

We immediately began treatment for Covid, and also corrected his high BP with suitable Anti hypertensives. 

The patient is now getting better. Such patients with comorbidities can go downhill rapidly. We would have referred him to a hospital, but again there are no beds. We are watching his vitals and monitoring him very closely.''

Donate for Asha’s Covid-19 emergency response: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: The Asha Team and Asha Corona Warriors treat patients at home in the slums

Patients with fever being monitored by our team and Warriors

Sick patient in Peera Garhi being treated by Asha

​Donate for Asha’s Covid-19 emergency response: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: Dr Kiran visits Kusumpur Pahadi slum community where Asha is fighting the spread of covid

Dr Kiran: ”Hello friends, here are some pictures from my visit to Kusumpur yesterday.

Pushpa saved the life of a dying patient. There are many warriors all of whom are fighting Covid along with the Asha team. Lots of patients with fever and URI symptoms.

Covid tests not being done in government hospitals anywhere in Delhi. I spoke with many residents. They are distraught and depressed because of loss of employment.

The Asha Team and Warriors send you our thanks for standing with us during this distressing time.”
​
Donate for Asha’s Covid-19 emergency response: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: Asha corona warriors in all slums get vaccinated through Asha

​Dr Kiran: ''Today India has seen its highest ever official cases: 400,000 in the past 24 hours.

There is a huge shortage of vaccines. They were to begin for all persons 18 and above, on May 1. However, in spite of patients being registered, the vaccine is not yet easily available.

In such a situation, Asha has been able to obtain special permission to get all Asha Corona Warriors vaccinated as they are frontline health care workers. Many warriors got vaccinated today and will continue next week as well. The Warriors are immensely grateful and relieved.''

Donate for Asha’s Covid-19 emergency response: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha’s COVID-19 Emergency Response: Dr Kiran visits Chanderpuri slum community where all covid protocols are being followed

Dr Kiran: “Here’s an update on my visit to Chanderpuri slum community yesterday.

The Warriors are doing a fabulous job of raising awareness and distributing masks to everyone. The entire community was mostly masked up and were observing Covid protocols that I was pleased to see.

They expressed deep gratitude to me for Asha’s service.

The Team and Warriors are treating all Covid patients, and are monitoring them rigorously everyday.
They are brave, enthusiastic, and filled with positive energy to perform all the tasks before them. They are making sure everyone gets treated, also gets loading doses of Vitamin D3, that all patients with co morbidities are adequately treated, and all malnourished persons are given supplemental nutrition through Asha.”
​
Donate for Asha’s Covid-19 emergency response: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: Asha provides home treatment to covid patients in the slums

​Dr Kiran: “Asha has instituted a protocol for home treatment of covid patients with mild, moderate or severe disease. The situation with hospital beds and oxygen continues to be horrendous.

We are treating severely ill patients with amazing success. I truly think it’s a miracle of God through willing and compassionate hands.

Patient came critically ill with spo2 of 53. Now 93. Patient is diabetic and being given insulin at home in addition to Covid treatment. See last picture, he is sitting up and eating.”
​
Donate for Asha’s Covid-19 emergency response: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: An urgent message from Dr Kiran Martin, Founder and Director

Donate for Asha’s COVID-19 Emergency Response: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: Dr Kiran visits Anna Nagar slum community to distribute masks

​Dr Kiran: ''Update from my visit to Anna Nagar today: 

So in Anna Nagar, I found that many were unmasked or were wearing dirty masks. I gave out some 3 ply surgical masks, and found that they were really happy to receive such a simple thing as a mask. They put them on over their own masks if they had them, and promised they would double mask whenever they went out. 

I left hundreds of masks with the team and the warriors. They will be distributing them to everyone in the community. I observed that mass distribution has a big effect on the community. It encourages Covid appropriate behavior and the Warriors are a lot more effective in their work.

The Warriors are doing a wonderful job, going from house to house. They are continuing to register all fever/URI patients and providing supportive therapy.  They are rigorously monitoring patients with pulse oxymeter every 6 hours. 

As per govt guidelines as well as our own thinking, all patients with symptoms will be considered to have Covid.'' 

Donate for the cause of Asha: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​University of Queensland-India Equity Postgraduate Coursework Scholarship awarded to Asha student Amritesh

Asha is very proud to congratulate Asha student Amritesh on being awarded the UQ-India Equity Postgraduate Coursework Scholarship to study a ‘Master of International Economics and Finance’ at the University of Queensland, Australia.
​
Amritesh is the first student from Asha to receive this scholarship at the University of Queensland. We wish Amritesh all the very best for his future as he beings to pursue this next chapter in his life!
​
https://www.uq.edu.au/news/article/2021/04/uq-student%E2%80%99s-journey-indian-slum-university-0 ​

​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: Asha works to get slum dwellers vaccinated as India experiences a massive surge of cases

​Dr Kiran: "Hello everyone, Covid update from me: 

There is a massive surge in cases all over India. There were nearly 300,000 cases in India, and over 29,000 in Delhi in the past 24 hours. 

The hospitals both public and private, are absolutely full. It’s near impossible to get a bed. 

There’s a huge shortage of Oxygen and drugs. 

Moderate to severe cases are being advised to buy Oxygen Concentrators and follow treatment under the care of a physician through telehealth, at home. There is just no other option. 

This variant is spreading far more rapidly and has demonstrated additional symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting, conjunctivitis, dry eyes, hearing loss etc

Asha has instituted interventions on a war footing. The Asha teams are patrolling every lane and every street to ensure that each person is following Covid protocols. Double masking is being advised to all residents. The Asha team members and warriors are wearing N95 masks and other PPE. 

Team members and Warriors are going from house to house with Pulse Oxymeters to detect Covid that requires more aggressive treatment. 

Suspected patients are being taken or sent for RT-PCR Testing. That is also in crisis mode because labs are overwhelmed and reports are taking upto a week to get generated. We are relying more on Pulse Oxymeters and counting the Respiratory Rate. Any patient suspected of symptoms is asked to be isolated to the extent possible in a slum community. 

We are gradually overcoming vaccine hesitancy. Every Asha team is in the process of forming good relationships with the staff at the local vaccination center. And this strategy is yielding great dividends. Lots of Asha residents are going with the Warriors daily to get vaccinated at the local Centre. 

There is major vaccine shortage in India and in Delhi. The Asha Team is doing an excellent job of making sure that Asha community members get the vaccine in the midst of the shortage. 

Thank you for continuing to support us and stand with us during this terrible crisis. 

Here are some pictures."

Donate for the cause of Asha: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: Asha follows stricter protocols amidst the second wave of covid-19 in India

​Dr Kiran: ''Hello everyone, here’s a Covid update from me:

The number of cases are surging, with India reporting about 293,000 cases and Delhi 25000 cases in the past 24 hours. Delhi has the maximum number of cases in the country. 

There is a huge shortage of hospital beds, Oxygen and Remdesivir. Labs are accepting samples for RT- PCR far above capacity, and as a result, reports are being returned after 4-5 days. Young adults are turning Covid positive in this wave. 

There is major vaccine shortage, and at the same time, a great deal of vaccine hesitancy. It’s really hard to convince slum residents to get vaccinated due to myths and superstitions around the vaccine. 

The surge in cases is attributed to a combination of the highly infectious mutant strain B.1.617, and the large crowds gathered at election rallies, religious festivals and family events. 

We are going to follow stricter protocols at Asha. Every Asha team member and warrior will wear N 95 masks and patrol the streets and lanes to make sure strict Covid protocols are observed everywhere. The expert panel of the government is encouraging double masking for the general population. We will be following the same protocols. 

The Asha team is trying its utmost to get everyone vaccinated. I’m sure we will be able to increase the pace when members of the community observe that those vaccinated are not demonstrating any serious side effects.''

Donate for the cause of Asha: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3 

​Asha team assists slum dwellers to their nearest vaccination centers

​Dr Kiran: ''Dear friends, the Asha team and volunteers have been working exceedingly hard to convince those eligible to take the vaccine. They accompany them to the nearest vaccination center.

One one hand there is vaccine hesitancy around myths and superstitions, and on the other hand, there is a shortage of vaccines. Many vaccination centers run out of them quickly and there is none left when patients are convinced with great difficulty by the Asha Team.''

Donate for the cause of Asha: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha’s Maternal Care Program has achieved high success in Asha slums

Dr Kiran, "I remember one day I was in Trilokpuri slum community. It was in the year 1991. A woman who was in labor was brought to my clinic. She was bleeding heavily and was in shock. I learnt that she had been given an injection of oxytocin by a local quack to hasten labor. Her uterus had ruptured because of that. I asked the family to rush her to the hospital emergency. Sadly both the mother and the baby died.

During those years I saw many pregnant mothers who hadn’t received any antenatal care, and developed complications such as eclampsia from high blood pressure, bleeding due to a variety of causes, infections after childbirth because local untrained midwives did deliveries, complications during delivery and so on. 

It was heartbreaking to witness mothers and babies dying just because mothers hadn’t received good antenatal care and the opportunity for safe deliveries. Such situations would be extremely rare in Western countries. Most deaths were definitely preventable or treatable. 

The Maternal Mortality Rate was 750 for every 100,000 live births, one of the highest in the world.

We did not have a single Maternal Death at Asha last year, and this has been the case in the past few years. 

Every mother has the right to experience the unimaginable joy when her newborn baby is placed in her arms, right? Instead it was a terrifying experience for them in the slums. In addition, there was the burden placed on giving the family a son. 

I am so glad that together we  are providing high quality maternal care to all Asha expectant mothers, and tracking them all through their pregnancy, childbirth, and during the postnatal period. Asha has trained hundreds of midwives over the years. 

Here are some pictures for you to enjoy.

They are registered early, looked after throughout their pregnancy, every patient gets ultrasounds and blood and other tests. Asha CHV’s and Volunteers give lessons on Maternal and  Newborn Health.

Postnatal visits are made by the Asha Team at home immediately after birth, and Asha team members help the mother to initiate breast feeding. The mother and baby are examined well as per the Asha protocols. 

The Asha baby is registered straightaway and tracked and taken care of all the way until the age of five.

The Neonatal Mortality Rate of Asha is 11 for every 1000 live births in comparison with 23 for India as a whole.

What a wonderful opportunity to reflect on these achievements on the occasion of World Health Day!"

Donate for the cause of Asha: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha celebrates ‘World Health Day’

Dr Kiran: "Hello friends, yesterday was World Health Day. The improvements in health of those placed under Asha’s care over the years have been dramatic. I think we have a lot to celebrate as we think of what has been achieved.

4 out of 5 children were not only malnourished, but had protein and micronutrient deficiency.

Thousands of children under Asha’s care are now healthy for age.

Asha’s vaccination program protects children against Tuberculosis, Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus, Measles, Mumps, Rubella, Poliomyelitis, Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid Fever. The vaccination coverage is 100%.

Wonderful Asha news on World Health Day! More news to follow."

​Donate for the cause of Asha: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha’s Zinc Supplementation Program successfully improves the health of children in the slums

​Dr Kiran: "I remember in the early years of Asha I would see so many young children with deficiency of the vital mineral Zinc, something that is extremely rare in Western countries. The diet of these young children was highly deficient in Zinc, which is mainly found in seafood, meat, poultry, nuts and seeds, milk and milk products, and some vegetables and legumes. 

Families were too poor to afford these foods. Malabsorption of zinc due to diarrhea was another major cause among young children. 

This deficiency showed itself as a weakened immune system resulting in children getting frequent bouts of diarrhea, lower respiratory tract infections, malaria and other parasitic infestations. 

I also noticed scanty hair growth and thinning of hair in young children. Many were moderately to severely stunted.

I also saw some rare cases of skin infections. 

I began a Zinc Supplementation Program for all children from 6 months to 5 years of age, making sure they received 3-5mg of Zinc per day based on their age. 

Later the WHO protocols included it as a part of treatment for diarrhea in children. Asha immediately began following this WHO protocol. 

During the pandemic, the diet has been terribly deficient in Zinc among adults. Therefore I began Zinc supplements for pregnant mothers, malnourished women and girls, and the elderly. 

Over the years, the supplementation of Zinc became a major contributor to fall in infant and child mortality rates, healthy weight and height, and much lower prevalence of diarrheal illness and pneumonia. 

Every Asha child is tracked by the Team, the CHV’s and Volunteers, making sure that each child receives Zinc supplements and that no child is left behind. 

Thank you to each one of you for helping us protect our children from the deficiency of Zinc that has serious consequences for children. This intervention has been critical during the pandemic with families experiencing food insecurity."

Donate for the cause of Asha: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha provides Vitamin A doses to young children in the slums with deficiency

​Dr Kiran: "Hello folks, In the early years of Asha, I remember seeing shocking symptoms of Vitamin A deficiency in young children. These symptoms were due to severe forms of Vitamin A deficiency. 

I saw children becoming blind at night, and this was followed by complete blindness due to melting and dying of the cornea. 

This was because the extreme poverty meant that their diet was severely deficient in Vitamin A rich foods. These are meat, fish, eggs and dairy products that of course slum residents could never afford to consume. It is also found in red and yellow vegetables and fruits. However, slum residents rarely eat a variety of fruits. The only source I saw possible was Carrots and Spinach. 

Children with dry eyes, an inflamed skin, dead corneas, frequent respiratory infections, stunting, eczema, and women not able to have babies was a common occurrence. 

I soon began a Vitamin A Prophylaxis Program which meant giving children between 1-5 years of age 200,000 International Units of Vitamin A every six months. Along with this, I also began to give deworming medicines ( broad spectrum) because I saw children with many different types of worm infestations. 

It is such a critically important intervention, and every single Asha child is registered on the program, receiving timely doses. 

From those days when Vitamin A deficiency needed me to give children emergency Vitamin A injections to prevent them from getting blind, I have seen remarkable progress, with the Asha children all being shielded from the terrible effects of Vitamin A deficiency. 

However, we must continue our efforts with urgency because the diet of the residents, specially during the pandemic with all their financial troubles, are highly deficient in Vitamin A. 

Deficiency of this vitamin is rarely seen in developed countries. 

Thank you to everyone of you for helping us save the eyes of our children. It is my hope that you will continue to raise resources so we can make sure each Asha child is looked after with loving concern and deep compassion. 

Here are some pictures of Asha team members giving Vitamin A to our children."

Donate for the cause of Asha: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Elderly in Asha slums receive their vaccination

​The vaccination process for age 60 and above has begun in India. However, many of the elderly in the slums are hesitant to receive the vaccination, they are scared about facing the adverse reactions and the pain. At such a time, it has been a great challenge for our Asha corona warriors to persuade the elderly and convince them that receiving the vaccination is the right thing to do for their health. But our warriors have kept their spirits high and continued the hard work to visit every elderly home and provide them with the correct information and benefits of taking the vaccine. 

Asha corona warriors in all the slums are registering the elderly in their area.  Most of the elderly have started to receive their appointments as well. Few of the elderly have also already received their first dose of vaccine. They will receive their second dose after 28 days. 

Through this entire process, the Asha corona warriors have taken the responsibility to personally assist the elderly to the hospitals. They make sure to sit with them and comfort them before and after they receive their vaccine jab. Furthermore, the warriors are also staying in touch with the elderly for the next 48 hours and providing them with the emotional support that they require. 

Asha is focusing on taking special care of the vulnerable elderly people, so that no one misses out on the opportunity to receive the aid they deserve. Many of the registered elderly have their appointment in the upcoming week. Asha warriors are continuing the hard work to register more people every day. Receiving the vaccination will make the elderly feel safe and secure amid the pandemic. 

Donate for the cause of Asha: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha Ambassadors coach younger Asha students in the slums

​With the pandemic, the education of school and college students has transferred online almost permanently. This situation has caused young students from the slums to face many queries and concerns in various subjects. At such a time, the Asha Ambassadors within various slums have stepped in and taken on the role of teachers to help students preparing for national school leaving exams continue their quest for education. 

Our resilient Asha Ambassadors are taking out time from their hectic schedules to coach slum students within their homes and the Asha study centres. They are making sure that no students fall behind in their studies and receive all the help that they require. 

We are so proud of our Asha Ambassadors for showcasing the value of 'Pay it forward' inaction and inspiring young minds within their slum communities.

Donate for the cause of Asha: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3 

​Inauguration of IT Center at Asha’s Mayapuri Slum Community

On 4th March 2021, ASHA inaugurated its first IT Lab in Mayapuri Asha centre in the presence of His Excellency Barry O’Farrell, High Commissioner of Australia to India. The event was also streamed live through zoom, and Asha supporters in Australia and around the world were able to watch with great delight.

Dr. Kiran hosted the online event and informed that this IT lab would transform the lives of thousands of young school and college-going Asha students in Mayapuri slum community. Mala, an Asha graduate also spoke about the challenges that students face regularly with internet services and how crucial an IT lab is for her community. Later, the High Commissioner also took a moment to appreciate the efforts of Asha and the Friends of Asha-Australia for supporting such means of education.
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The Asha students were very excited to have a personal interaction with HE Mr. Barry O’Farrell and share their stories with him. The High Commissioner also received the opportunity to engage with the Women’s Group and community health volunteers in Mayapuri and take a tour of the Mayapuri Asha centre as well.
ASHA would like to thank Friends of Asha in Australia for their support for this initiative.

​Asha Student Mohini from Tigri Slum Community

​Dr Kiran: 'This is a beautiful video of Mohini from Asha’s Tigri Slum Community. 

I remember, during the early years of Asha, I personally witnessed newborn baby girls being strangulated by the midwife with the umbilical cord, and they were still born. I saw one of them being buried behind her mother’s shanty, surrounded by garbage and filth. 

Girls in the slums are denied an education, married early and have children well before they are 20-21 years of age. 

They are the silent sufferers with rampant sexual abuse. 

How much mourning and sorrow there is when they are born, specially if they are child number 3 or 4. 

Such was the situation with Mohini. But what a marvelous story of redemption through the work of Asha, told in her own words. And I’m sure we will see her in Australia soon, doing her Masters!' 

​Asha student Vandana from Mayapuri slum community

​Dr Kiran: 'Hello everyone, below is a moving video of Vandana, recorded by her in English. I have to say I was impressed by the level of English displayed. She is being given English lessons by an 18 year old enthusiastic teacher called Julianna. Julianna is now a freshman student at university in the US. She is the daughter of a wonderful supporter and friend Steve Watson.

Well done Julianna and Vandana! Who knows where Vandana will go next?'

​Asha student Mala’s story in her own words

​Dr Kiran: "Beautiful and soul stirring video of Mala in her own words."

​Asha frontline health workers receive their vaccination

​Dr Kiran- "Covishield vaccine begins for Asha frontline health workers today."

​Asha Graduate Jubair shares his journey with Asha

​Dr Kiran: ''Hello folks, this is the video of Asha Graduate Jubair speaking in his own words. It’s such a powerful story, accompanied by pictures of him when he was young, and of him with many of you on this group, particularly in the UK. Look out for your pictures with Jubair! 

Watching the miracle of the way his life gets transformed is wonderful. He is one of my earliest mentees. Perhaps he gives me more praise than I deserve. His own hard work and attributes are primarily responsible. 

His heartfelt promise of standing with my vision to propel it forward till the last day of his life is moving to hear. 

He symbolizes what the power of education can achieve: empowerment, connections across the world, flourishing and productivity, justice, citizenship, a strong character, and much more. 

Please feel free to spread it around.'' 

Donate for the cause of Asha: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha distributes blankets to the elderly in the slums

​Dr Kiran: 'Hello everyone, many thanks to all who have donated to Asha’s Care of the Elderly program coming up to Christmas. The elderly who are poor and abandoned in Asha communities need assistance at so many levels. 

They find it difficult to maintain their body temperature in the cold weather, particularly because they live in poorly protected shelter. They already have a slow metabolism and muscle loss with age, which makes it hard for them to bear the cold. I have seen the elderly die of heart attacks because the cold air from the roof and sides of the poorly insulated shanty comes in and constricts their blood vessels, increasing their blood pressure. I have also seen them die of hypothermia. They can suffer from many other diseases due to a poor immune system. 

We were able to provide soft warm blankets to all the elderly under our care, and they were delighted. 

The Asha volunteers visit them everyday to make sure they are doing well. They receive groceries from Asha and all their health needs are taken care of as much as is possible at the Asha Community Clinic.'

Donate for the cause of Asha: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha CHV Prema from Mayapuri

​Dr Kiran: 'Hello friends, here is a video of the story of Asha Community Health Volunteer Prema. Asha has trained hundreds of such women from their respective slum communities over the past 33 years. 

As a result of the comprehensive nature of Asha’s 3 tiered health care program, a few health stats for 2019/2020 are as follows: 

Antenatal Care Coverage: 100%

Institutional Deliveries or Deliveries by Trained Midwives: 100%

Babies born with normal birth weight: 91%

Babies breast fed within 6 hours of birth: 100%

Vaccination coverage for children under 5: 98%

Maternal Mortality: 0

Infant Mortality Rate: 13( India as a whole-56)

Under five Mortality Rate: 13 ( India as a whole-37)

( Statistical Tool used: Median)

(Mortality Figures for India as a whole are under reported by the Government of India)

These women are the real heroes of health care in our slums!'

Asha student Amritesh shares his extraordinary story

​Dr Kiran: 'This is a video of a remarkable story of a young man called Amritesh. Amritesh was a stutterer as a child, and experienced a great deal of trauma through his school years. He experienced helplessness, fear, and shame. He was constantly bullied at school, and resorted to avoidance.

Many stutterers do not get a good education, are not successfully employed, and have a substantially reduced quality of life.'

Not Amritesh! Here’s his story in his own words. 

​Asha student Parvez shares his story

Dr Kiran: ‘Here’s the moving story of Parvez in his own words. What a great deal of courage he has demonstrated by speaking in a language he didn’t know a word of, and learnt at Asha.'

​Donate for the cause of Asha: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

Asha student Tushar from Mayapuri slum community

Asha student Tushar from Mayapuri shares his personal story and achievements that he has garnered through the support of Asha. We thank all of you for your continuous love and support, in aiding young and bright minds such as Tushar and thousands more in Asha communities.
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Donate for the cause of Asha: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Dr Kiran visits new Asha students in Kalkaji slum community

Dr Kiran visited Kalkaji slum community where she was greeted with around 30 Asha corona warriors and students who greeted her with a warm welcome, and huge smiles on their faces. The Asha corona warriors were eager and excited to interact with Dr Kiran and share their stories with her.

This year, the Asha team in Kalkaji has scored the highest level of admissions to the Delhi University within all the Asha slums! There has been a total of 25 admissions from this community and nearby slum areas where the Asha team continuously works. Dr Kiran was extremely happy with these results and congratulated the team for their dedication and hard work in securing these admissions.

Next, Dr Kiran held an interactive session with the new Asha students wherein the students introduced themselves and shared their stories. Dr Kiran enquired about their association with Asha and heard about how the Asha team in Kalkaji had helped these students with every step in securing their admissions in their desired courses and colleges. The new Asha students were extremely emotional while interacting with Dr Kiran, they thanked her from the bottom of their hearts for providing Asha scholarships through which these students were able to pay their college fees and secure their college seats.
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The benefits of higher education within Asha slums are clearly visible and bring much joy. May this movement grow to reach thousands upon thousands of young people, and transform the entire landscape of the Asha communities, forever liberating them from the distress and sorrows of poverty.

​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: Asha warrior Sunny recounts the relief programs and interventions conducted in all Asha communities

​Dr Kiran: 'Asha Warrior Sunny of Mayapuri has recorded a wonderful video painting a picture of the Covid situation in the Asha communities, and thanking all of you for having stood with them during such hard times.'

Donate for the cause of Asha: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3 

​Asha Mahila Mandal in Seelampur transform their community

Dr Kiran: ‘I received great joy from being welcomed with love and warmth by the residents of Seelampur.

As I walked along the main road inside the slum towards the Asha Centre, I saw the huge difference the covering of the large open drain had made. The open drain was always filled with sewerage and solid waste, and was the source of diarrhea, cholera, typhoid, malaria, dengue, hepatitis, and a host of other illnesses. The Asha Mahila Mandal in the community deserves full credit for this major task accomplished; getting an open drain covered after years of perseverance.

They have also got the huge open garbage disposal site at the entrance to the slum covered, and the garbage inside is now mechanically disposed of.

Congratulations to the Seelampur Mahila Mandal for these remarkable achievements. They are truly empowered to transform their communities.’
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Donate for the cause of Asha: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Reflections on Leadership: Dr Kiran

​Dr Kiran: 'Today, I want to share with you some reflections on Leadership, and the types of leadership that 
are helping us to successfully strategize, implement, and see the impact of our efforts on Asha communities, especially during this pandemic. 

I truly believe that the effectiveness of our efforts is directly attributable to the strength of our leadership. 

Talent and skill among leaders is very important. But, the most important demonstrations of our leadership qualities are the ways in which we love, we serve, and our authenticity, solidity, and personal substance. 

Our leadership calls for loving attention to every member of the team, their nature, their gifts, their needs, and their motivations. They are precious people, and they must be given full support, and shown kindness at all times. Their problems must be listened to and heard with empathy. Each team member must be affirmed and appreciated. As Asha leaders, we  must create an environment of safety and security for each team member. An atmosphere of trust creates wonderful bonds between co-workers. There is then no room for politics or gossip. 

We must necessarily lead by example, demonstrating compassion and courage in the midst of the most difficult circumstances. 

Boundless energy, passion, and an optimism rooted in reality will gain leaders many supporters who when empowered, will carry Hope and Asha, to the farthest corners of every Asha community.'

Donate for the cause of Asha: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha warriors take personal care of the Elderly in the slums

Dr Kiran: ‘The elderly under our care are in great distress at this time. These pictures speak volumes on the poverty they are living in. Run down homes, little to eat, little to wear, sickness, frailty, inability to take care of themselves. Lonely, abandoned and forgotten by their families. So much emotional pain.

What a wonderful source of solace, comfort and help our Warriors are. Each Warrior is given the responsibility of an Elderly person. They visit them every single day. And how the elderly look forward to their daily visits.

I feel that there is a lot more I must do for them. I will consult all around and then expand my work. They must be given a lot of love, and must live in comfort and with dignity.’
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Donate for the cause of Asha: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​The power of touch in Asha communities

​Dr Kiran: ‘One of the greatest challenges the Asha family is facing during this pandemic is the physical distancing needed between people. The language of touch is not being spoken these days, and it’s joys seem lost for a while.

Affectionate and loving hugs have been a hallmark of the Asha family. The power of touch has created an environment of safety and trust. It has spread tremendous amount of goodwill and fostered cooperative relationships in Asha communities everywhere.

Touch has the power to soothe, to express compassion, to calm down stress, and to produce generosity.

Hugging boosts self esteem and brings about a sense of security in a way no words can. Hugging stirs the soul. Sometimes only the language of touch can fully express what we feel.

May the joys of this wonderful language soon be restored to us all, and may we learn to cherish it more than ever.’
​
Donate for the cause of Asha: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​The transformational stories of young Asha students in various slum communities

Dr Kiran: ‘I hope you have been enjoying the wonderful transformational stories of our young people from the Asha slum communities who are at university.

These and hundreds of other stories are really a tribute to each one of you.

Together we have created opportunities for much better health, much higher income levels, development of a vast variety of skills, and dream careers. We have created opportunities for our young people to grow and expand their minds, and experiment with what they are passionate about.

Their communication skills, critical thinking skills, sense of discipline, and productivity, have all grown by leaps and bounds.

The benefits of higher education to entire communities is clearly visible, and bring me much joy. The communities are much healthier with higher life expectancies. Many have been able to break free from the cycle of poverty. The strong are lifting up the weak. They are politically aware, are good citizens, and highly involved in civic affairs. Child marriage has gone down dramatically, age at marriage has advanced, and women are seen as equal partners with men, rather than just future wives and mothers.
​
May this movement grow to reach thousands upon thousands of young people, and transform the entire landscape of the Asha communities, forever liberating them from the distress and sorrows of poverty.’
​
Donate for the cause of Asha: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

Asha student Naaz looks forward to pursuing Journalism at Delhi University

Dr Kiran: ‘This is the story of Naaz Parveen who has scored 93% in her school leaving exams, and has found a place at Delhi University where she will be doing a BA Honours in Journalism! It’s a really hard program to get into.

Naaz’s father has been selling garlic on a cart in the lanes and by lanes of his slum community for the past 20 years. His barely makes 2 dollars a day or so.

Naaz has lived in one room with 7 other family members for almost all her life.

But there’s a wonderful side to this story. Naaz’s older brother is Jubair, who is an Asha alumnus and Ambassador. He has mentored and inspired his sister, who may have otherwise been married by now, had it not been for Jubair.

Many of you have met, and also inspired and helped Jubair through his own journey. I remember how thrilled he was when he got an internship at The Lodi Hotel through Liz. He has never looked back since.

Entire families and communities are being transformed, one step at a time, never to return to the poverty they have faced all their lives.’
​
Donate for the cause of Asha: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Usha's success story serves to inspire all Asha students

Dr Kiran: 'Usha’s father is a gardener and mother is a house maid; her shanty is by the side of a huge open drain with pigs wallowing in the mud everywhere. Many of you have met her. 

Today, Usha is a journalist at the Entertainment Channel of the largest media house in India, The Hindustan Times. She reviews and critiques movies, serials, and other Bollywood shows, interviews celebrities, covers Bollywood events and so on. Here’s a video of her critiquing a newly released Bollywood film. The sum total of what she is saying is that it’s not worth watching and she has given it a 2 out of 5 star rating. And she is not reading from a script.
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What a long long way she has come! I am so proud of her. This is a moment to remember all of you who influenced her as she was growing up at Asha. And that’s many of you. Usha and I shall forever be grateful.'

​A warm tribute to late Ms Ruth McKibbin

Dr Kiran: ‘Hello folks, today’s posts are dedicated to the Late Ms Ruth McKibbin who spent over 20 years bringing teams of pupils from Methodist College Belfast from out to the Kalkaji slum community every 18 months. She was dearly loved by everyone at Kalkaji: the Asha team, university students and school pupils alike. What a wonderful legacy she created at Asha over the years.

Here is the story of Shiva who was a part of the Asha Children’s Group at Kalkaji since a young age. He learnt a lot from Ruth and the Methodist teams that would spend time with him and other children during their visits. Ruth would have been so proud of his achievements.

Shiva lives in a tiny two room home with his family in Kalkaji slum. His father has been working as a daily wage laborer at construction sites for over 30 years.

During the pandemic, Shiva’s father lost all work, and then developed Covid. At first he was quarantined at home, but his condition deteriorated, and he had to get admitted to a public hospital. He was really ill, and for a time the family thought he wouldn’t make it. Fortunately he recovered after a prolonged hospital stay and finally came home.

You can imagine how hard it might have been for Shiva to focus on studying for his school leaving exams with the tremendous worry of his father’s health.

Asha stood with Shiva, providing groceries for the family regularly, and giving Shiva all the support and mentoring he needed to take his exams. He would study at the Asha Centre, a place that has been lovingly been created by the pupils of Methody.

Shiva scored an amazing 91.2%, much to our delight!

It was impossible for Shiva’s family to fund his university education.

With Asha’s full support, Shiva has secured a place in a Bachelors in Commerce Honours program at the prestigious Kirorimal College of Delhi University.

Thank you Ruth for your loving service of many years to the poor of Kalkaji. I’m sure you are smiling from above.’
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Donate for the cause of Asha: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

Asha Scholarship Awards given to Asha students admitted to the Delhi University

​Dr Kiran: 'Hi there folks, here is the list of Asha students who have made it to Delhi University so far! You will see how wonderfully they have scored in their high school exams, and have opted for the courses of their choice, that are varied, from many streams.

The process is on, and will continue for a month longer. The students who have scored lower are anxiously waiting to see if they might get in through the declaration of the next list by the university.

Here are some pictures of the Asha Scholarship Awards given to the admitted students. How excited they are to begin life at university!'

Donate for the cause of Asha: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha Corona Warriors honoured with certificates for their hard work and dedication

Dr Kiran: ”Hello folks, as you might know, the Asha Corona Warriors have been working tirelessly with compassion and kindness for the slum communities under Asha’s care ever since the lockdown began. The team is made up of doctors, nurses, paramedics, social workers, volunteers, drivers, maids, admin and finance staff, and the communications team members.
To express our appreciation and gratitude to these wonderful people, we have given certificates to each warrior. Your support and thanks too will mean the world to them! Send the team a message at info@asha-india.org, and we will be sure to get it to them.

You can help protect them by raising funds/making donations towards USD 10,000/ GBP 7,700/ AUD 14,000 for much needed protective gear and essential medical equipment. You can create crowdfunding campaigns in different platforms such as GoFundMe, JustGiving Crowdfunding, My cause etc, to reach our goal.
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Thank you so much for all you have done, and want to, for standing with our team of Asha Corona Warriors. Your generosity will assist in aiding the Asha team with their work on the field and provide them with safety, encouragement and support to continue working with dedication.”

​Asha team practice the Asha value ‘Compassion’ in the slums

Dr Kiran: ‘There is a nobility in compassion, a beauty in empathy. Our sorrows and wounds are healed only when they are touched with compassion. A truly great and generous heart is always tender and compassionate.’

Donate for the cause of Asha: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha students from various slums gain admission to the prestigious Delhi University

​Dr Kiran: Hi folks, today I have some exciting news. The Delhi University admissions process has begun and the Asha students have begun to get in! 

​19-year-old Adil of Jeevan Nagar slum community has just found a place in BSc Physics Honors at Delhi University! He had scored 93.4% in high school. His father is a daily wage laborer and he has grown up in extreme poverty. Although he loves to study, his books get wet when it rains, and they are regularly eaten by huge bandicoot rats that make their home in his shanty. He has been greatly inspired by Chandan, who also lives in the same community. Congratulations Adil! Asha will pay for all his expenses, and allow him to concentrate on his education.

​Saddam’s father has been working as a daily wage unskilled laborer at construction sites all his life. He has now become frail. Saddam began to do waitering work at weddings and parties from class 10 onwards. He earned Rs 300/-( 4 USD) a day and gave the money to his mother to buy food for the family. Saddam scored 88% in his high school exam. The Asha team and volunteers mentored and inspired him through his journey. He has now been admitted to Delhi University where he will study English and Sociology! Saddam says his life in the slums has been small and he has been greatly limited by his circumstances. He is grateful for Asha’s financial and emotional support, and is ready to begin the next chapter of his life, exploring the world and all it has to offer him. And at the same time absorbing the Asha values to become a man of compassion and integrity.

Anjali’s shanty is on the river bed in East Delhi. It’s made up of hay and bamboo, and each year, when the area gets flooded, her home gets flooded, and her family has to move their belongings to higher ground on the main road. 
Anjali’s father is a labourer in the farms close by, and earns barely 70 dollars a month. Anjali scored 81% in her high school exams, and has found a place at Delhi University! She will be reading History and Political Science. Asha has always mentored and supported her, and will continue to do so, including paying for all her university expenses.

Deepanshu from Tigri slum colony scored 84% in his high school exam, and has just been admitted to Delhi University in the Bachelors in Mathematics Honors program! Big congratulations Deepanshu for this rare achievement! He resides in a tiny shanty; his father is unemployed due to the pandemic. He shared how he had only one school uniform, and would wash it every evening for the next day. Chandan’s Mathematical journey will, I’m sure inspire him. May he flourish abundantly and become a man of compassion and integrity as well.

​Nisha lives in Tigri slum community as well. Her father is a daily wage labourer and her mother collects scrap and recycles it to somehow make ends meet. Nisha’s grandmother sadly passed away during the lockdown due to the unavailability of medical services. She scored 84% in her high school exams. This girl who has been selling mud lamps by the roadside, will now read English and Political Science at Delhi University!

Donate for the cause of Asha: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

Asha team practice the Asha VALUE 'compassion' in the slums

​Dr Kiran: “I had an exciting Zoom call with over 350 Asha team members and volunteers a couple of days back. Everyone was enthused and energized to continue working with even greater zeal and passion.

I spoke about Compassion. The Latin meaning being ‘to suffer with.’ Its about recognizing of another person’s suffering and being sensitive to it; a sharing of the heart, followed by a deep desire to alleviate the suffering.

I distinguished between Compassion and Pity, explaining that Pity is a fleeting emotion that does not fully recognize the pain of others. It also has an element of superiority.

I then spoke about the wonderful benefits and effects of exercising compassion. It uproots the wish to harm others. The compassionate mind is purified of the taint of ill will.

Compassion brings the mind to a state of peace. It brings about justice, harmony, and mental freedom. It makes us move from a desire of self promotion and self achievement, towards a desire to feel the pain of others.

The exercise of compassion gives us bliss and pleasure. It relaxes us, and helps us regulate our emotions through reduced activity of the amygdala( a part of the lower brain). It’s a great stress reliever, because it lowers our inflammation levels and strengthens our immune system through increasing the levels of the hormones dopamine and oxytocin.

We then spoke about ways to cultivate compassion. To begin every morning with a Gratitude and Compassion Meditation. Next comes the practice of Self Compassion, eliminating guilt and negative self talk. Then reach out to those who are suffering and try to imagine how you might feel if you were in their place. I spoke about practicing compassion with people of all castes, colour, age, and gender, in order to bring in justice, dignity, and harmony, and break down barriers.

I spoke about the importance of being non judgmental while practicing compassion. And also about listening well, giving full attention and making eye contact.

Finally I said we should reflect on our acts of compassion at the end of each day. It must be practiced daily and become a firm habit.

The habitual practice of compassion brings True and Lasting Happiness.
​
Here are some beautiful pictures they sent me the next day.”

Donate for the cause of Asha: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha children share what they learn at the Asha centers

Dr Kiran: ‘Hi there everyone, here’s a beautiful video with Asha’s young children from slum communities. Hear them speak about what they are learning and how they are living their lives during the pandemic, through their relationship with Asha.’

​Donate for the cause of Asha- https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

Annual Report 2019-2020​

Dear Friends,

As we complete another year, we bring to you the significant developments that have taken place at Asha.

Asha in coalition with the University of Sydney launched the ‘Sydney Scholars India Equity Scholarship’ in 2019. Its first recipient Abhishek Handa from Peeragarhi slum is now pursuing his ‘Master of Management’ at the University of Sydney. Chevening Award recipient Chandan Singh from Jeevan Nagar slum is also pursuing his postgraduate study in the UK, he is now working on a Masters in pure mathematics at Imperial College, London. The fundraising cookbook Hope & Spice was launched in India in October 2019 at another wonderful evening hosted by the British High Commissioner. In 2019-20, there were various workshops held at the Asha headquarters. Each workshop was designed to be very interactive and motivating for Asha college students.

In the midst of the sudden pandemic that consumed the world in early 2020, we immediately launched the ‘Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response’. This focused on the wellbeing of the families living within the 91 slums Asha works in, as the nation went into lockdown. Asha immediately formed 22 Asha Corona Warrior Teams across various communities. Each team comprised of young volunteers and the Community Health Volunteers (CHVs). They worked alongside the local police and local administration and assisted them in their crisis management. Asha provided monetary support as well as carefully planned food parcels to the elderly, disabled, widows, families with babies and small children, malnourished children, and people with chronic diseases.

As you go through this report, we hope you enjoy reading the stories of transformation and the impact of Asha’s Intervention through healthcare, education, empowerment, financial inclusion, and environment programmes.​

Read the Annual Report here: https://bit.ly/30jzdoe 

​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: The Elderly cared for in all Asha communities

Dr Kiran: ”Hello folks, I have considerably expanded the Asha Covid-19 public Health activities for the Elderly in our care in all the Asha communities. They have been suffering from great physical and emotional neglect, and it is sad to see them suffering like this during these years of their lives.

Here are some pictures of our interventions.

May we bring joy in the lives of each of them, make them feel loved and cared for, valued and appreciated.”

Donate for the cause of Asha: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: Vitamin D distributed regularly to the elderly in Asha slums

Dr Kiran: ''Vitamin D Deficiency in the elderly has become a critical issue to address during the pandemic. 

Most elderly in the slums already suffer from it due to a diet poor in Vitamin D content. However the problem has been aggravated because during the pandemic the elderly have no exposure to sunlight, and their diet is highly deficient in Vitamin D. Those over 70 need 800 IU per day.  

As the skin of the elderly thins with age, the synthesis of Vitamin D becomes much less efficient. Reduced appetite and impaired absorption of nutrients further compounds the problem. 

The way it is manifesting in the elderly during the Covid-19 pandemic is: 

- their muscles are becoming weak. They feel heaviness in their legs and have difficulty standing up. Their risk of falls and fractures has increased to dangerous levels.
- Vitamin D regulates immune function and the release of neurotransmitters in the brain that regulate mood. ( Dopamine and Serotonin). The elderly who are feeling depressed and tired all the time may actually be suffering from Vitamin D deficiency. They may suffer from cognitive decline and be at greater risk for developing various forms of dementia. 
- They may feel tired all the time, and have widespread pain in areas like the shoulders, pelvis, rib cage and lower back, leaving them feeling drained. 
- Low levels of Vitamin D may be a causative factor in Inflammatory Bowel Disease. This can make matters worse, since Vitamin D is a fat soluble Vitamin, and if bowel diseases interfere with the absorption of dietary fat, the deficiency of Vitamin D will worsen. 

The combination of symptoms caused by low Vitamin D, such as fatigue, pain and depression can easily be misdiagnosed or written off as inevitable side effects of ageing. 

Asha has begun giving 60,000 IU of Vitamin D3 weekly to all seniors 65 and above. Many patients are already stating that they are feeling much better. The reversal of symptoms can be fast.''

Donate for the cause of Asha: ​https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: Asha focuses on caring for the elderly in the slums

​Dr Kiran: "Hello friends, these days my team and I have the care of the elderly in our slum communities as a major focus. This pandemic has caused them to suffer from hunger, disease, deficiency of micronutrients, and loneliness and depression. 

The Asha team and warriors are holding special clinics where every elderly person is lovingly looked after. All their health parameters are carefully studied, and appropriate medications given free of cost. 

Grocery bags are being given regularly to every elderly person who has no support. There are many such persons who are living alone with no family member to care for them. 

I have recently extended our Supplementary Feeding Program to each elderly person who is undernourished. They enjoy their daily visits to the Asha centers where not only do they enjoy nutritious food, but also build social connections in a loving and safe environment. 

I have begun giving them Vitamin D supplements that are absolutely critical to their health, specially because they stay indoors all the time due to Covid-19 and hardly have any exposure to sunlight. 

I will say more about the Vitamin D supplementation in my next post. 

I’m sure you will agree that we must all stand together with the elderly in every way not only through this pandemic, but also beyond, being Ambassadors of love to them, and bringing joy into their lives everyday."

Click to donate for the cause of Asha: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Dr Kiran shares positive affirmations with the entire Asha team

Dr Kiran- ''Hi there folks, last night a had a wonderful Zoom session with the entire Asha team.

I first affirmed each of them for an amazing job they have all done during the toughest of circumstances in this pandemic. On the call were not only the teams working in the slum communities, but also the finance team, communications team, admin team, and the support staff including all the drivers and the maids. All of them have worked and are continuing to work exceedingly hard. 

I then spoke about:

1. The benefits of positive emotions.

2. How we can cultivate positive emotions.

Benefits. I shared that:

1. They change our outlook. They open our minds. The way we look at situations changes. We almost always find ways, we never ever quit. 

2. We face our difficulties and challenges more easily. We become more resilient.

3. We see past cultural and racial differences. We see our common humanity.

4. We become more creative. We get new ideas. 

5. They strengthen our relationships and develop trust. They make us look for the best in others. 

6. They make us better persons. The nature we are born with can change for the better as we cultivate them. 

7. They help us to make the best decisions. They give us wisdom when there are tough choices to make. 

8. They lower anxiety, worry, and mental disturbances. 

What a wonderful list of scientifically proven benefits.

Next I shared with them on how we can cultivate positive emotions: 

Cultivating them is not easy. It requires daily practice, and then it becomes a habit. 

We must:

1. Surround ourselves with more positive people than negative.

2. Practise Affirmation exercises with family, friends, and co-workers. ( I have taught them these exercises before) 

3. Consciously fill our minds with good thoughts, so there is no room for negative thoughts. Our brains cannot hold positive and negative thoughts together.

4. Create an environment of Joy.

5. Practice Gratitude exercises.

6. Look for the good in others and validate them rather than criticize them. 

7. Guard our tone, our voice, our tongue, being quick to listen and slow to speak.
 
We can either languish from day to day, or we can flourish and live life fully!

Immediately following on from the Zoom meeting, the teams began to celebrate and practice in many ways. 

They cooked and ate together, affirmed one another, made expressions of gratitude, everyone on the teams coming together. And they told me they had a wonderful time and felt so energized. They felt like loving more, and being more compassionate. They found that the problems they had magnified in their minds, felt small. There was fun and laughter in the slum communities in the midst of the pandemic."

​Asha attends to the holistic wellness of the elderly people living in the slums

​Dr Kiran- "Hello folks! Today’s post is about the elderly living in the slums. Asha has been a witness to the magnitude of problems they face. They have endured a lifetime of poverty, poor nutrition, poor health care, and have spent years in hard physical labor. 

Many are now unable to work, are suffering from great loneliness, and poor mental health.

They are constantly worried about where they will live if their homes in the slums are demolished. They have no savings and no access to social security. 

Elderly women are the most vulnerable. There are estrangements in family relationships, worries about repayments that are due to money lenders, worries related to unmarried or widowed daughters, and alcoholism among male members in the family. 

Asha runs special weekly geriatric clinics, to provide them with health care with compassion and dignity, and to promote healthy ageing. Physiological ageing must not become pathological ageing. 

Asha provides them with essential groceries on a regular basis, in order that their nutritional needs are met. 

Asha also has eating and drinking rituals for them from time to time, to help them feel connected and loved.

Asha team members and volunteers visit them in their homes regularly to check on them and spend time with them. 

The Asha Advocacy Groups intervene when they are treated unfairly or poorly by their family members. 

I think we must do a lot more for them, and help them age in a healthy and dignified manner."

Click to donate for the cause of Asha: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: Asha Corona Warrior Neha from Jeevan Nagar recounts volunteering in her slum community during the lockdown

​The Prime Minister of Denmark HE Lars Lokken Rasmussen wrote this after his visit to Jeevan Nagar slum community and to Neha’s home:

There are as many smart heads here in one of Delhi's slums, Jeevan Nagar, as anywhere else. These young people need ′′ just ′′ a little more help to exploit their skills and move forward in life. The ASHA Society helps them with that. Madhu Yadav on the right here in the picture was told by her father she was getting married when she turned 18 But ASHA helped her convince the family she should be allowed to continue her studies. She did. And now she is also a student assistant at the Danish embassy in Delhi with Anju Rani and Chandan Singh.

I also visited Neha Bharti at home. They live seven people on something that must have been 20 square meters in everything - spread over two floors. But Neha is studying and fighting her way forward despite the fact that she is not quite as good at English as the other young people at the studio. I told her mother she must be proud of her daughter. It made her throw herself up and give me a huge hug. I take that as a big ′′ yea ′′

Without any comparison by the way, I know what it's like to be the first in the family to educate at the university. We have a duty to bring all young people along. They can do it - here in Delhi too. They just need a little more help.

Dr Kiran: "Neha is one of our finest Asha Corona Warriors and is learning English language verbal and written communication from a student who lives in New York. She was terrified of recording a video in English, but here she is! Way to go Neha! We are with you all the way."

​Asha Corona Warrior Mala from Mayapuri shares her personal journey

​One of our best Asha Corona Warriors, Mala, shares her personal journey of learning to communicate in English.
Mala has been receiving guidance and training from Asha Great Britain Board member Helen Finch. Since the past few months, Helen has been taking online lessons and improving Mala's communication skills through regular video calls.
Since Mala got associated with Asha she has begun to improve her English. Today, Mala can communicate fluently and is constantly working on improving her skill with every passing day. Asha is very proud of Mala and we salute her spirit!
​
Click to donate- https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha Team at Seelampur showcase Asha value 'Generosity' in action

Generosity comes in many forms, when you are generous you will prioritize the needs of others, often above your own. In such challenging times, the Asha team at Seelampur have taken the initiative and showcased the Asha value 'Generosity' in action. The team has contributed together to purchase some items that will be very useful to a bride who comes from a poor family in Seelampur slum.
​
The selfless and generous Asha team at Seelampur has set an example by leading the way for all of us.

​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: Asha Corona Warrior Shiv speaks about the relief programmes at Seelampur slum

Here’s a wonderful video recording of one of our best Asha Corona Warriors Shiv, whom many of you know. He didn’t know a word of English before he began to learn at Asha. Many of you have influenced him and inspired him over the years. He is currently taking lessons from Asha Ireland board member, Victoria Thampi.
​
Click to donate- https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

Dr Kiran Martin, Founder & Director of Asha Society speaks to Amanda Clegg

This pandemic has been cruel to so many. The slums in Delhi have been some of the hardest hit.

Hear Dr Kiran Martin talk about the plight of the women and children in these communities in this newly recorded zoom interview with Friends of Asha (GB) Trustee, Amanda Clegg.

Please share this link and spread the message to others, as the need for funds for food and medicines is very great.

Click to donate: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha’s relief programmes benefit hundreds of homeless Anna Nagar slum residents

​The disaster affected victims of Anna Nagar slum colony need our continued help as are homeless and live temporarily in a public school. Here’s a moving video.

Please share with your networks and let us all stand with them in their pain and their sufferings.

Donate for the disaster affected victims of Anna Nagar. They will continue to need our help till they find a home again: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: Asha runs a supplementary nutrition program to combat malnutrition in the river bed slum

300 families live in the worst of environmental conditions and poverty on the river bed near the Interstate Bus Terminal. They rush to the main road when the entire area gets flooded during a heavy monsoon, and live there for months until the flood waters recede. Their huts are still made of bamboo, straw and tarpaulin. The entire area is dusty and muddy. There are no roads, no drainage systems, no street lights, no electricity in the homes, and stagnant water all around. Flies and mosquitoes abound everywhere. Most people are rickshaw pullers and are out of work these days.

The Asha team visits this community regularly and activities are carried out from a small bamboo shed owned by one of the residents. It’s terribly hot these days and there’s a small table fan to get some air. Apart from giving the residents regular groceries and other urgent help, I noticed that the children under five were getting even more severely malnourished than they already were.

The wonderful Asha team has found a way to begin the supplementary nutrition program in this community. They lay out mats on the dusty patch of land, and the children come with the mothers to eat the delicious Asha high calorie high protein Laddoo. No building, no rooms, no infrastructure, and yet the children come with great enthusiasm everyday to enjoy their Laddoos. Their growth is being monitored carefully and they are also being given all essential micro nutrients. I am amazed at the dedication of the team to carry out this program in such a difficult environment.

Click to donate for the cause of Asha: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: Asha Ambassador Santosh from Zakhira narrates the horrible situation in his slum during the lockdown

Asha ambassador Santosh from Zakhira slum narrates his volunteering experience as an Asha corona warrior during the lockdown. Santosh recounts how horrible the situation had become in his slum as children and women fell into malnutrition and sick patients had no access to hospitals. As a part of the Asha corona warrior team in Zakhira, Santosh visited each slum home and provided slum families with financial aid and groceries along with spreading awareness about COVID-19.

Santosh believes that the Asha feeding programs being conducted across Asha centres to improve malnutrition will surely benefit thousands of slum dwellers who still need our continuous help.
​
To Donate- https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha warriors provide relief and comfort to slum dwellers in Anna Nagar

Asha continues to provide relief materials and comfort to the hundreds of slum dwellers who have been affected by the natural disaster in Anna Nagar. There are many families who need urgent help and assistance.

The disaster affected families in Anna Nagar have been moved to a local school, thanks to the persevering efforts of Asha Corona Warrior Junaid.

Warriors from a number of other Asha communities decided to do donation drives in their areas, and collected clothes, bought toothbrushes and toothpaste, detergent powder, and food items. They went from their respective communities to the school and spent time with the affected families. And distributed relief packets with kindness and words of comfort.
​
Click to donate for the cause of Asha: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: Asha High Protein Powder helps malnutrion girls and women gain weight

The Asha High Protein Powder developed by Asha GB (Great Britain) Board member, Amanda Clegg is successfully being fed to hundreds of women and girls suffering from malnutrition in various Asha slum communities. 

The women and adolescent girls from our communities are enjoying the drink and have already begun to gain weight.

Women in the slums usually fall behind men in having access to food. Female illiteracy, poverty, and lack of empowerment are the major causes of malnutrition in women and adolescent girls. They have weaker control over the household resources, tighter time constraints, heavy work burdens, lack of attention, poorer mental health, and lower self esteem.

They therefore suffer from chronic energy deficit, anemia, and other micronutrient deficiencies.

The most widespread forms of micronutrient malnutrition are Iron, Vitamin A, Zinc, and Iodine deficiencies. Asha is providing these supplements to every woman registered on the program.

The Covid 19 pandemic has increased the food insecurity levels many fold, and along with the other factors described above, hundreds of women and adolescent girls have fallen into severe malnutrition.”
​
Click to donate for the cause of Asha: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: Asha continues sending food parcels everyday to Asha slums all over the city

The total number of reported cases of Covid-19 in India has crossed 1.5 million. I am certain that the actual number is much higher because of a variety of reasons such as highly inadequate testing, reluctance on the part of patients to get tested and isolated, poor data collection and coordination, and so on. I would say that the reported number could easily be multiplied by 5 times or even more. The urban poor continue to be the hardest hit, and are suffering the most for the devastating economic toll of lockdowns and job losses.

Social distancing in the slums is impossible, and there is little running water and sanitation, putting them at much greater risk for contracting the virus. Rickshaw pullers, construction workers, daily wage workers in factories, and domestic workers are all out of work. They are employed on verbal contracts and have no social security.

Their employers have access to the best of health care, can watch Netflix in air conditioned apartments or gated houses, while their neighbors in the slums suffer without money and without food.

Let us continue to raise resources to help them during this terrible crisis. We are sending food parcels everyday to our Asha slums all over the city. We have expanded our health care programs, and are running special clinics for the most vulnerable: the elderly, malnourished women, children under five, pregnant women, patients with diabetes and hypertension and other co-morbid conditions.
​
We are in desperate need for resources to buy groceries and medicines. Thank you all for your hearts of compassion and for standing with us during these most difficult of times.

Here are some pictures from this week.

The bags are procured by Asha and are being given out by the members of Asha’s Women’s Groups who are now volunteering in large numbers, along with our younger Asha Corona Warriors.”
​
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha provides relief materials to the poor who lost their homes in Anna Nagar slum

​

Dr Kiran- “The Asha team has provided them with groceries, utensils, clothes, and footwear.

The team and Warriors are with them all day, treating the sick and giving comfort and solace”
​
Click to donate for the cause of Asha: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha’s Anna Nagar slum community faces a deadly natural disaster

​

Dr Kiran- “A terrible incident took place in Asha’s Anna Nagar slum community this past Sunday. It rained very heavily, and the homes of some families toppled into the open drain they were located by. Fortunately they left their homes just 5 minutes before the houses fell. They lost everything. The poor have no insurance. They lost whatever little money they had, and they are living under tent provided by the local government, with no belongings. All their national and state documents were also lost.

Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: Asha Ambassador Tushar shares his painful experience that occurred due to the nation-wide lockdown

​Asha ambassador Tushar belongs to the Mayapuri slum community that is sandwiched between the railway line and Asia’s largest scrap market. Tushar shares the painful experience of one of the most difficult times in his life, when his father, lost his job due to the lockdown. Despite his personal problems, Tushar continued to visit each slum home from door to door with the Asha warriors team and made sure every slum family was aware of the COVID-19 safety guidelines. He believes that we have a long way to go as there are still thousands of slum dwellers who still need our help.
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DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE:- https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: Asha Ambassador Mala recounts serving her community during a time of distress

Asha Ambassador Mala from the Mayapuri slum community speaks about how the lockdown and COVID-19 have affected thousands of people living in her locality. She recounts her personal experiences of serving the community members during a time of distress. Mala believes that it is the need of the hour to continue helping the thousands of sick and poor people who have been affected by the adverse effects of the lockdown in India.
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DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE:- https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha students excel in their class 12 exam results

The high school national results (equal to A levels/ class 12) have just been announced, as Asha students in the slums waited with great excitement. Asha students have gone through difficult circumstances living in the slums, studying hard for their examinations with self-study and help from Asha, as coaching classes are too expensive. 

The Asha students have done a phenomenal job, with 15 students scoring above 90%! The results are still being compiled.
The topper is a girl from Seelampur called Fazia. She has scored a whopping 96%, with 97 in Political Science, 97 in
Geography, 94 in History, 95 in English, and 96 in Hindi.

Fazia’s life has been filled with sadness. She lost her father some years ago, and her mother is a cancer survivor. Her younger sister is severely malnourished, and has been registered at Asha’s Women’s Malnutrition Programme. Her brother is the only earning member and pulls heavy loads on a cart in the local market, earning Rs 6000/- ( 78 USD) in a month. He has no work these days because of the pandemic. The family is going through great financial hardship.

Fazia has been mentored and counseled by the Asha team and Ambassadors at Seelampur.
She would love to go to university, and we will pay for her tuition and all her expenses.

What wonderful news, and may God replenish our resources so that we can pay for students like Fazia to go to university. We must not leave a single young person behind. More stories to follow.

To donate for the education of girls in the slums, click here: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: Antenatal care provided to pregnant Women in Asha slums

Antenatal care comes under one of those categories of healthcare that has been seriously neglected by the government hospitals owing to the pandemic and the lockdown in Delhi. Asha realized the need for an urgent need of Antenatal care clinics to be conducted as soon as possible to provide aid to helpless pregnant women in slums.

We are providing the best quality Antenatal care possible to our pregnant women during this pandemic. As you may know, pregnant women are at a much greater risk to contract serious forms of Covid-19. They are also more prone to complications related to pregnancy and to preterm births. The effects of Covid-19 on newborns is not yet fully understood.

Most of Asha’s pregnant women do not want to have an institutional delivery for fear of contracting Covid-19 in the hospitals. Many hospitals where they were registered earlier, are turning them away because of having become COVID 19 hospitals.
Asha has trained many midwives over the years, and during those early days, most women would have home deliveries conducted by Asha Trained Birth Attendants. They then moved on to institutional deliveries over time. Now they are back to home deliveries and I am so glad our trained midwives in every community are available to conduct them.

We are making sure of regular check-ups, identifying high-risk cases, providing vitamin and mineral supplements, and postnatal care, including initiating early breastfeeding. There is no evidence of newborns getting infected with Coronavirus through breast milk.

We are emphasizing the use of masks, hand hygiene, and physical distancing to the maximum extent possible. They are being encouraged to stay at home throughout the duration of their pregnancy and the postpartum period. Many are anxious and depressed, and the Asha team and Warriors are providing them with mental health support.”
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DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: ASHA USA organise the first Virtual Fundraiser to raise funds for Asha

-​Amidst the outbreak of COVID 19, Sacramento Chapter of ASHA-USA organised the Virtual Fundraiser, the first of its kind on June 27, 2020. Every year Friends of Asha- USA organises ASHA (Day) fundraiser event in the month of September but this year the Friends of Asha decided to prepone the event to raise the funds for the work of Asha during COVID 19. It was not only a great way to network and fundraise virtually but also the donors got an opportunity to hear a live update on Asha’s emergency COVID-19 response from Asha Founder and Director Dr. Kiran Martin.

Dr. Kiran updated the supporters on the situation in Delhi. The nationwide lockdown from 24th March to 8th June highly damaged the living conditions of most slum dwellers but Asha anticipated the situation and immediately responded. Dr Kiran also replied to the queries of the attendees. 

Congressman Mike Thompson is a long-standing supporter of Asha and has organised the Asha fundraiser event annually since last 22 years. Hon’ble Mike Thompson could not attend the virtual fundraising event but sent a recorded message. Click on the link to see the message: https://youtu.be/L09X_UeQviA

During these last few months, the life of the slum dwellers has changed completely but Asha gave them a new hope with the help of your support.
​
If you would like to make a contribution to help us fight Covid-19 in the Asha slum communities, please donate by clicking the link: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: High energy and High protein powder created to promote weight in Malnutrition Women

There has recently been a high growth of severely malnourished women in the Asha slums. Many women have lost a lot of weight and have a very low BMI owing to the after-effects of the lockdown in India. Asha has created a special recipe for a ‘High energy High protein powder’ to be distributed daily in Asha centres to promote steady weight growth in these women.

I have commenced a Malnutrition Clinic for Women ( 15-49 years) and we have prepared a high energy high protein powder in house for these women. They will come every day to the Asha centre for their daily supplement. I feel sure that along with giving them other micronutrients and dietary advice, they will gain weight. We will monitor their weight and BMI regularly.
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DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: Reusable cloth masks distributed to the neediest within all Asha slums

It is widely known today that COVID-19 is spread through respiratory droplets. To reduce the spread of this virus, WHO has recommended wearing masks in public settings along with maintaining social distancing measures. With the rising cases in India, Asha realised the urgent need to accommodate each slum dweller with a cloth mask that is washable and can be reused.

India’s caseload is now in excess of 700,000, with the most rapid rise in New Delhi and Mumbai. The masks and face covers worn by many poor slum families are unclean and unhygienic, mainly due to the financial inability to buy masks, and cleaning supplies. We have been distributing washable cloth masks to the poorest and the neediest.
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DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: Typhoid Vaccine procured and administered for all Asha children aged 2 years and above

At this time each year, Typhoid cases tend to increase in the slums. The change in the weather brings with it this disease that rapidly affects children aged 2 and above. The pandemic has made the procurement of vaccines highly difficult, however,  Asha has managed to procure the same for young children who require the vaccines urgently.

Typhoid is a dangerous illness that is common in the slums of Delhi due to the poor sanitation and contaminated drinking water. Cases go up from July until September, and I have seen serious complications such as intestinal perforation with septicemia, meningitis, and pericarditis in children.

Typhoid vaccination is given regularly to all Asha children 2 years of age and above. This year, the focus on COVID 19 has meant that there is no focus on vaccinations, and that is a dangerous situation to be in for young children living in the slums.
I was so relieved when we were able to finally buy a Typhoid vaccine, and procure it for all our health centres after a great deal of difficulty because of issues with the supply chain.

The administration of the vaccine to the Asha children has begun and will continue until each Asha child receives the vaccine.
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DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: India becomes the world’s 3rd highest country for coronavirus cases- Asha slums get positive cases

With the rising cases of COVID-19 positive cases in India with each passing day, India has now become the third worst-affected country in the world. This has affected the Asha slum communities as well wherein there have been multiple positive cases recently. Asha continues to provide safety guidelines and relief materials to slum dwellers.

India has surpassed Russia to now become the country with the third-largest caseload in the world, after the US and Brazil. Delhi is among the worst affected cities in the country, and the slums have many cases. The Asha public health Covid-19 interventions are multiple and intense. Most people are out of work, and in desperate need of food parcels.
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​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: Malnutrition Clinic for Women conducted in all Asha communities

The pandemic has brought along with it the increase in poverty, especially in the slums where most families are either living on one meal a day or going to bed on hungry stomachs. Amongst them, it has been the women who are facing the highest adverse effects and becoming severely underweight in Asha slums.

​COVID-19 is having serious consequences on the nutrition of women in our slum communities, causing them to become severely malnourished in many cases. This is a direct consequence of simply not having a sufficient daily caloric consumption coupled with women always eating last after feeding the entire family. Many are eating one meal a day.

As you know, a BMI of less than 16 indicates Severe Thinness and is known to be associated with a markedly increased risk for ill health, poor physical performance, lethargy, and even death. This cut off point is an extreme limit. It is the result of substantial loss of fat and muscle tissue, the body using these constituents for energy to support the nervous system and the heart. Severe thinness is accompanied by significant protein and vitamin deficiencies and frequently accompanied by constant appetite loss.

I have begun a Malnutrition Clinic for Women in the age group 15-49 years. The focus at this time is on Severe Thinness. We are finding women with BMI’s as low as 12 and 13. ( eg 25-year-old woman whose height is 155cm and weight is 32kg has a BMI of 13.3)Here are some pictures below of such women. We have begun creating their health profiles, giving them Vitamin and Mineral Supplements, and an Asha High-Calorie High Protein powder as a nutritional supplement.”
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​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: Asha supplementary feeding program is ongoing on all slum communities

COVID-19 has had lasting after-effects on the poorest across the world, especially among the slums where every day is a fight for survival. The Asha slums have witnessed a high increase in malnutrition children which has been a direct repercussion of the national lockdown for two and a half months.
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The effect of the COVID 19 pandemic on young children in the slums has been devastating. Many have lost a lot of weight and appetite. Their mothers have also become malnourished, and find it very challenging to take care of them. The fight for survival has left them emotionally drained, and unable to give loving care and attention to their children. The Asha supplementary feeding program for young children is run in a number of communities by the Asha Corona Warriors and Asha team members. The Asha Laddoo is a calorie-dense high protein food that is lovingly fed on a daily basis to all the children registered in the program. Each child is paid attention to and treated with warmth and affection. They are regaining their lost appetites and gaining weight.

The withholding of love from a child especially during the critical developmental periods in his or her life can drive them to destruction. May the Asha family in Delhi and around the world provide these children with love’s nurturing, its compassion, and it’s life-giving blessings.”
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DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: Severely malnourished women in the slums attend Malnutrition Clinic

The after-effects of the lockdown have resulted in not just the malnourishment of young children, this pandemic has created a mass of severely malnourished women in the slums as well. To combat this issue, Asha has launched a ‘Malnutrition Clinic’ for Women in the slums belonging to the age group of 15-49 years.

COVID-19 is having serious consequences on the nutrition of women in our slum communities, causing them to become severely malnourished in many cases. This is a direct consequence of simply not having a sufficient daily caloric consumption coupled with women always eating last after feeding the entire family. Many are eating one meal a day. You may know that the BMI( Body Mass Index) is a simple index of weight to height that is commonly used to classify underweight, overweight, and obesity in adults. Weight in kg divided by the square of the height in meters( kg/m*)
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A BMI of less than 17 indicates moderate and severe thinness. BMI of less than 16 is known to be associated with a markedly increased risk for ill health, poor physical performance, lethargy, and even death. This cut off point is an extreme limit. It is the result of substantial loss of fat and muscle tissue. This is because the body uses these constituents for energy to support the nervous system and the heart. Severe thinness is accompanied by significant protein and vitamin deficiencies and frequently accompanied by constant appetite loss.

I have begun a Malnutrition Clinic for Women in the age group 15-49 years. The focus at this time is on Thinness. We were shocked to find women with BMI’s as low as 12 and 13. Anything less than 16 is classified as Severe Thinness and requires urgent attention. Here are some pictures below of such women. We have begun creating their health profiles, giving them Vitamin and Mineral Supplements, and are in the process of creating a powder rich in calories and proteins. Amanda Clegg is helping me create the recipe.

Let us all think of these women who are suffering from severe thinness and help them get to a normal weight by providing them with all the dietary support and medical help they need, including the critical element of emotional support.

DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: Asha students assisted with every step of the online Delhi University admissions

Asha team members at all Asha centres are helping the students register online as their admission to Delhi University as the procedures have started online this year. While the final year Delhi University students are taking mock exams to help them prepare for the finals. All Asha students are being provided with tremendous motivation and support during this critical period in their lives.
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Today’s post is about updates on various areas of intervention, all of which must be paid equal attention to, as each intervention has been seriously impacted due to Covid-19 with grave consequences if not addressed.
The class 12( high school, A level students) have to register at the Delhi University portal for admissions to the university this coming year, and the deadline is close. Some students are scared, some are not showing interest because of the uncertainty, some want to work and help their families financially instead of studying further, some have gone to their villages where there is no internet access. The Asha family is worried about them and their future. The senior university students and graduates are also worried. Everyone is working extremely hard at trying to convince them to register. Many high school students don’t even have email ids and have no clue how to register. The team of staff and volunteers in all the communities is helping them every day.

The Delhi University final year exams are online as explained earlier. They are on an Open Book Format( OBF). This is going to be a major challenge for our slum students who will have to make do with smartphones. They are continuously taking mock exams organized by Asha.
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All this while the number of COVID-19 cases is increasing daily.
Desperate families continue to be given grocery bags on a daily basis.
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​Asha student Tushar wins ‘Student of the Year’ award

Asha students over the years have always been made their communities proud of their academic achievements. This year once again one of the most hardworking Asha student, Tushar, has left a strong mark. His achievement will be an inspiration for all the younger Asha students in the years to come.
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Asha final year student Tushar who is about to complete his BA in History Honours at Delhi University has just received ‘ Student of the Year’ Award at his college!
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He is the son of a poor and humble labourer and was born and raised in one of the slums of the Mayapuri area. His life was completely transformed through his partnership with Asha. He interned at the British High Commission and at Macquarie bank. He went on an Asha trip to the UK last year, and many of you met him there. He has also given speeches at public gatherings organized by Asha. I am working with Sydney University to help him do a Masters there possibly in 2021.
Tushar has been one of our finest and bravest Asha Corona Warriors and has done exemplary work in and around the slum communities of Mayapuri.''

​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: Final year Delhi University Asha students prepare to take their online exams

In the midst of the pandemic, Asha students are studying at their homes and Asha centres to prepare for their online exams. Asha team members at all Asha centres are supporting the Asha students by motivating them continuously.

​The many Asha students who will be taking their final year Delhi University exams online in just a few days, are apprehensive and worried. My message to them has been that the team is with them to give them all the support they need. They must not run away from this exam and lose the opportunity of getting a degree from one of the best universities in India. They are facing huge social inequity and disadvantages in comparison with their well off peers. If they are brave enough to attempt these exams, one day they will soon break the cycle of this inequity that they have suffered for generations, and flourish and prosper in all ways.”

DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: Asha students prepare to take their online exams at Asha centres

Final year Asha students are gearing up to take their exams online. They are nervous and apprehensive as this is something absolutely new to them. Asha is taking every measure to make sure that each Asha student is supported in their endeavours and that no child is left behind.

​The final year Asha Delhi University students will be taking their end of year exams online for the first time. Asha is arranging for them to take multiple mock exams at the Asha centre so they gain familiarity and confidence. Phones, internet, stationery, professional IT assistance from the student body, a quiet place to take the exam, an understanding of the scanning processes, it’s all happening in preparation for the start of the papers in the first week of July. Some students were shocked at realizing how badly they would have gone wrong if they hadn’t taken these mocks. One more huge challenge for students who live in slum communities. And they will face it bravely with help from Asha.
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DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: Asha Laddoos distributed in all Asha slum communities

​To combat malnutrition amongst young children in the slums, the highly nutritious and delicious ‘Asha High Energy Laddoo’ has been distributed to hundreds of young children in all the slum communities. This laddoo is going to help in the growth of all malnourished children and help them to gain good weight.

The Asha High Energy Laddoo is now being enjoyed by young children in many Asha communities. How wonderful is the combination of wholesome nutritious food given with love and affection to a child. One laddoo is 387 calories, and some children eat two. They are certain to be saved from malnutrition and it’s many attendant complications.

Widows, the elderly, the unemployed with little children, the sick, being given desperately needed funds to buy food and essentials.”
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DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response: Dr Kiran inaugurates the ‘Asha High Energy Laddoo’

There have been many horrendous after-effects of the lockdown, one of them is how healthy young children in the slums have fallen back into malnutrition. As slum families were left with no job and income to feed their children, many have survived the lockdown with one single meal a day. This is how children aged 5 and under have started to fall back into malnutrition in the slums.

​The young children in ASHA communities are rapidly falling into malnutrition due to severe financial disadvantages in the families. To arrest this process, Asha Great Britain Board Member and author of Hope and Spice Amanda Clegg has created a wonderful high-calorie high protein Laddoo (round-shaped Indian sweet). We have decided to call it ‘Asha High Energy Laddoo’. This Laddoo was inaugurated by me today at Zakhira, and the children absolutely loved it. Each Laddoo is approximately 387 calories. It contains peanuts, gram, jaggery, milk powder, desiccated coconut, ghee and cardamom powder. Please find below some pictures of the children enjoying the laddoo.

​Here is the recipe. Do try it. It’s delicious. Maybe your children will love it too.

Asha High Energy Ladoo- Makes 13

This recipe has been developed to provide a nutritious ladoo that is high in calories and therefore is a good source of energy. Packed with roasted gram, peanuts, milk powder, coconut, each ladoo is a good source of fat, carbohydrate, and protein.
The peanuts provide magnesium and iron, the milk powder is high in calcium, the coconut is high in manganese and the jaggery provides iron and potassium. The ghee is an excellent source of energy and also contains omega 6 fatty acids. Dietary fibre comes from both the peanuts and the roasted gram.
Each ladoo is approximately 387 calories.
The cup measurements used are UK cups ie 1 cup= 250ml, ½ cup =125ml, ¼ cup =60ml.
1 ½ cups roasted gram
1 cup raw peanuts
¾ cup milk powder (full fat)
¼ cup sweetened desiccated coconut
1 cup jaggery
1 ¼ cups ghee
½ teaspoon ground cardamom (elaichi)
Dry roast the peanuts in a frying pan over a medium to low flame for 5 minutes, until toasted and golden. Cool and de-skin (if necessary). Grind to a coarse mixture and set aside.
Toast the coconut in the same pan over low heat until just golden, stirring regularly so it does not catch or burn. Set aside.
Grind the roasted skinned gram into a fine powder and set aside. (You may be able to get this ready ground?).
Melt ½ cup of ghee in a large pan and when it is completely liquid, add the gram powder and stir well. Cook gently for 2-3 minutes, stirring all the time, then add the ground peanuts, toasted coconut and milk powder. Mix together and then cook over very low heat, stirring constantly for 3-4 minutes, until the mixture is a deep golden colour. Be careful it does not burn. Remove to a large mixing bowl and set aside.
Melt the remaining ghee in the same pan, and when it’s melted, add the jaggery. Let it dissolve slowly into the ghee, stirring well. Take it off the heat and pour the liquid into the gram mixture. Sprinkle in the ground cardamom, stir well and mix until fully combined. The mixture will look like wet crumbs.
Form the mixture into 15 even-sized round ladoos, then leave them to firm up for 2-3 hours. Store in an airtight container.

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​Asha warriors continue to be brave and committed to serve their communities

Dr Kiran- “As the numbers of cases are increasing daily, the Asha Corona Warriors continue to be brave and committed, visiting every home in their communities. The afternoon temperature is 40°C (104 deg F)and it’s challenging to wear PPE in this heat. Most people are scared to go out because of the cases and density of population everywhere. The Asha clinics are open every day, treating non-COVID patients, looking after the children, running feeding programs and spreading education and awareness in the lanes and homes. What a sincere and courageous group of Warriors, serving from a pure heart and never giving up, in spite of their own challenges.”
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DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha’s supplementary feeding program provides children with a nutritious diet

Dr Kiran- ”Hello folks, as I sit among the young children in the Asha communities and engage with them and their mothers, one of the sad effects of the pandemic is that the parents are so stressed with their employment and financial situation, and the lack of food, that there is no room or time to show love to their children. Daily care and affection through hugs and cuddles, lovingly feeding them, paying attention to their needs, celebrating their birthdays, it’s all but gone. I am anxious for the children’s physical and mental well being, their bonds with their parents, their fears and insecurities, and their future ability to learn well at school.

Asha’s supplementary feeding program is being designed to provide the young children with a nutritious diet and create an environment for mothers to give love and attention to their children, and for Asha’s team and volunteers too to show them love and affection, and bring joy to their lives. Our children must come out of the pandemic healthy, strong, secure, and confident. It may sound hard during such trying times, but I think loving our children is the most powerful and transformational act during these hardest of times.”
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​Asha caters to each child in the Asha slums

Dr Kiran- “Each Asha child is precious. Is priceless. Is dearly beloved. Is cherished. Is treasured. We must protect them with commitment and generosity, safeguarding them from the dangers they face due to their poverty.”
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​Asha continues providing support to hundreds in the slums every day

Dr Kiran- “Hello folks, you may have heard that the COVID-19 cases are on the rise in India, particularly in Delhi, with about 60-70 deaths in the city daily. The standard of care in our public hospitals in Delhi is abysmal. Many prefer to die at home rather than go there. The private ones are impossible for the poor to afford.

Some of these pictures may seem repetitive; each one represents a person we touch and provide support to in many ways, and they are in the hundreds every day. We must be devoted and steadfast and true to our word. Trustworthy and consistent. Continue to express solidarity with singleness of heart. Faithful to our oath and obligations. Be loyal out of love, dedication and commitment. Persevere and never give up. Till our friends in the slums come out from the darkness into light.”
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​Dr Kiran celebrates her birthday with the Asha family in Safedi Basti slum colony

Dr Kiran, “I had one of the most wonderful birthdays of my life at Safeda Basti slum colony today. The young and old, women and men, boys and girls, all gathered together to wish me, bless me, love me. I cut a cake in one of their homes the entrance of which they decorated with balloons.

I then proceeded to give them food parcels and we all agreed that we would have a hearty meal tonight wherever we are, brothers and sisters in the Asha family, united by our love for one another.

I came home from the slum community to find over 1000 cards waiting for me made by boys and girls, young adults, women and men, and the elderly from all Asha communities. They were filled with messages of blessings, of love, of gratitude, of hope for a friendship that lasts forever.”

‘An Extra Helping of Hope & Spice’ e-book launched to support Asha

​Amanda Clegg and Victoria Byrne- the team behind award-winning Asha cookbook Hope & Spice- have spent lockdown pulling together a new e-book called “An Extra Helping of Hope & Spice”.

​Struck by Asha’s current life-saving work in the communities (giving out grocery bags, medicines, finances, and emotional support to the slum residents), they wanted to raise money to contribute and to show the families that they are not forgotten. Available worldwide to download from Amazon (https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B089FNK9FY/– UK)(https://www.amazon.in/dp/B089FNK9FY/ref=cm_sw_r_tw_dp_U_x_48f4Eb91WXBQ6- India) onto a phone, tablet or laptop, all proceeds go to Asha Society.

Featuring a new set of recipes and the story of Madhu, one of our higher education students, it follows the same formula as the original Hope & Spice book (also available on Amazon). Why not get a copy for yourself or gift a copy for friends/family and join us all in spreading hope!

​Asha provides essential groceries to families in Chanderpuri slum community

​Dr Kiran- ”Today was my second visit to Chanderpuri slum community. People were looking forward to receiving me; they were filled with hope at a time of distress, as my car pulled up outside the centre. The rickshaw pullers, ice cream vendors, those who worked in the neighbouring Gandhi market, all sat idle. This third round of groceries meant that they could continue to cook at home and provide for their families. I saw a few families had begun to get piece based work. Cutting the extra thread from the cloth that was to be made into a pair of jeans fetched 0.50paise each. The girl said she earns Rs 200/-( approx GBP 2.50) if she is able to do 400 pieces in a day. The exploitation of cheap labour from the poorest people in the city was a sorrowful sight.

Essential groceries were received with gratitude in one part of the centre, while a supplementary feeding program for children from 1-3 years of age was being run in the other part. It is critical to provide these children with one nutritious meal every day to prevent them from going into severe malnutrition and developing micronutrient deficiencies.”
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DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha provides relief to the women from the River Bed slum community

Dr Kiran- ”Hello folks, the women from the River Bed Slum Community were anxiously waiting for Asha’s vehicle and team to arrive with desperately needed groceries. Today was the second round for every family. The cycle rickshaws are seen in the picture; there has been no work for 67 days. Some people work as labourers in the field nearby, but there has been no farming activity since the lockdown began. Many women looked skinny and anemic. I am trying to get the Asha bus on the road so that we can take care of this community on a regular basis. The CNG gas stations have not opened yet, and the Road Transport Authority is not functional.

The arrival of the Asha team and vehicle fills them with hope and comfort.”
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​Dr Kiran runs a baby clinic at Kusumpur Pahadi slum community

Dr Kiran- ”17 enthusiastic Asha Corona Warriors received me with a warm welcome at Kusumpur Pahadi Slum Colony today. Team Leader Pushpa and Supervisor Rani were doing an amazing job running the baby clinic at the Asha centre.

There was a never-ending stream of widows, the elderly, the disabled and the very poor who had fallen upon terribly hard times and did not have even one rupee. I was so sad to see their condition. We gave financial assistance to as many as we could. Many were the families of our brave and courageous warriors who did not forsake the residents at a time when everyone else was too afraid to go anywhere near them.”

DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy

​Asha launches a sanitation drive for all slum communities

Dr Kiran- ”Asha has launched a massive advocacy drive for sanitation of all the communities. The team and Warriors have approached the Municipal Councillors everywhere and complained of the horrific sanitary conditions. The action has begun, and sanitary workers are being sent to all Asha communities.”
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​Dr Kiran runs a clinic at Asha’s Kalkaji slum centre

Dr Kiran- ”I was very disheartened to meet a child in Kalkaji pictured below. This child was left in the care of her sister while the mother went to stand in a line to get food for the family. Scalding hot water fell on the child’s left lower limb and she had to be treated at the hospital for burns. The mother was weeping in distress that this happened because she had to leave her child at home.

Kalkaji is an extremely crowded slum community with the narrowest of alleys and multi-storied slum homes. The main road is broken up due to the digging and it is lined with hawkers right next to each other selling their wares on the ground by the side of the road, all along with it. The work of the Asha team has seen many transformations over the years in the 3 communities surrounding the Asha centre. I sat in the centre and was saddened to see how healthy children under five had become malnourished due to the circumstances created by the lockdown.”
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​Dr Kiran runs a baby clinic at Jeevan Nagar slum community

​Dr Kiran- ”I was received with great warmth and gratitude by the residents of Asha’s Jeevan Nagar Community this past Monday. We ran a baby clinic there and I was disturbed to find that a lot of children under 5 years of age who had been healthy, had fallen into malnutrition or were on their way. I began a supplementary feeding program there, wherein all children from 1-3 years of age are given a nutritious meal at the Asha centre at about 12.30 pm.
Below you will also see pictures of the elderly, women with young children, widows, the disabled and the needy who had no money at all, were given funds. Many wept tears of gratitude.”
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​Dr Kiran visits slum families located by the riverbed

​Dr Kiran- ”My visit today was to a slum community of about 300 families located on the bed of the river Yamuna that flows through the eastern part of the city. The heat was scorching at 45 degrees C ( 113 deg F) and hot dust was flying everywhere. The Asha team led by Sweeta had just finished their baby clinic that was run in an open area surrounded by huts. They had distributed Child Nutrition Kits to all children between 1-3 years of age.

I was greeted with much warmth by the community and before I could even begin, they were all thanking me profusely for having sent them groceries and finances at a time when they said everyone had forgotten them. The huts are made of bamboo, sticks, tarpaulin and pieces of cloth. There are no bricks to be seen anywhere. No roads, no paths, no street lights. Hundreds of flies everywhere. Hundreds of mosquitoes at night. The area is surrounded by fields and grass. Snakes coming out of the grass and entering the huts is common. Families sleep outside at night. It’s impossible to sleep inside in the heat. The men are cycle rickshaw pullers or labourers. Work came to a halt on March 24.”
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DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha provides menstrual hygiene products to young girls

Dr Kiran- ”Hello folks, young girls in our communities are facing major problems because they have no money to buy menstrual hygiene products. They were using them before, but now they have to use pieces of cloth. Privacy is a major issue because the public toilets are unhygienic and the doors are often broken. Nowadays soap and water is a major problem as well. Other comorbidities are reproductive tract infections and urinary tract infections among others.

The girls of Mayapuri were happy and relieved to receive menstrual hygiene products from Asha today.
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If you can find innovative ways of raising resources for these products, we can help many more young girls and mothers as well. 2 packs of feminine hygiene products and a bar of soap will cost about 3 pounds only. It will be wonderful if we can reach out to all the Asha communities as much as possible. We will also educate them on menstrual hygiene and safe and proper disposal of products. That way our young girls will be able to go through menstruation with dignity.”
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​Dr Kiran visits families in Mayapuri slum community

Dr Kiran- ”It was Mayapuri’s turn today. I know many of you have visited this community over the years and witnessed for yourselves the poverty and deprivation along the railway track as well as in Kanchan Basti, which is one of the poorest slums in the city. Today’s afternoon temperature was 44 degrees C, and the heat was both blistering and suffocating. We walked from the Asha center to the community, where families had just received Groceries from Asha. As I went from home to home and lane to lane, most people hadn’t eaten since Wednesday. They are rag pickers and scavengers or sell balloons and small toys at traffic lights. The empty containers, the hungry children, the desperation, was heartbreaking. We had already given Nutrition Kits to the young children earlier. Everywhere I went, hearts and eyes were filled with gratitude. Tressy has been serving there for over 20 years. The Asha Corona Warriors Tushar, Mala, Maya, Sunny, and many others have poured their hearts and souls into this community since the lockdown began. They themselves have no money; they were doing some part-time work while studying at university. That has gone. We gave the Warriors funds and groceries again today. But they have no expectation whatsoever and offer their services with a pure heart.
At the Asha centre, the team gave out the groceries. There was a stampede at one point after we had given out about 80 bags, and we had to stop. So desperate were they for the food, that they just could not stand in line. The large crowd stormed into the well, and there was chaos. All our pleading was in vain. We had to abandon the distribution and defer it to tomorrow, deciding that the Warriors would give them the parcels at their homes in an orderly manner. Let’s see what happens tomorrow.”

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​Dr Kiran visits Safeda Basti slum community

Dr Kiran- ”Safeda Basti is a slum community of about 250 families and is located about 1km from Chanderpuri where we have a centre and have been working for some years. The Asha students introduced us to the area, and we were able to begin helping the young people get a university education. I had never been there before and decided to visit today. I was horrified by the poverty I witnessed. The team ran a baby clinic from a makeshift shed, the afternoon temperature today was 42 deg C. After giving out the Child Nutrition Kits, we went into the community. There’s a cowshed in one corner of the community, and the cow dung flows through the open drains, choking them. There’s garbage everywhere. The sanitation officials hardly ever come. No source of clean water. Just a few hand pumps here and there. The homes are really tiny as you’ll see in the pictures. The men work as daily wage labourers in the local market, pull cycle rickshaws, or pull heavy loads on carts. The women work as domestic servants. They all looked undernourished and anaemic. The children under five were all malnourished. People shouldn’t be living in this area. But they have been living there for over 35 years. Covid19 has caused them immense suffering. They were telling me they feel faint standing in a line for 3 hours in the suffocating heat for a bowl of food from the government. Some of the alleys are so narrow, I nearly fell into an open drain. In the midst of such despondency, our Asha Corona Warriors, 5 lovely girls, all Asha university students have been working every day bringing hope and consolation and giving advice. Because of your generosity, we have been able to help them with groceries and funds. Further listings are being prepared, and I promised them we would be back with more. Once the lockdown is over, we must find a way or working their long term.”
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​Dr Kiran visits Asha students and Asha Corona Warriors in Zakhira slum community

Dr Kiran- ”I returned from my visit to Zakhira slum colony today with mixed feelings. There was so much sorrow and suffering, and at the same time, there was hope and gratitude.

Below is one of the smallest homes in all the Asha communities. It belongs to our brilliant student Santosh who is doing his Bachelors in Computer Science Engineering from one of India’s top engineering colleges, Delhi Technological University. His mother wept tears of gratitude to Asha for where he is today. The three walls seen in these pictures are all there is.
Even during these dark times, they have Hope in Asha and expressed their gratitude. They found a way to make beautiful gratitude cards.”
​
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​Dr Kiran meets families in Seelampur slum community

Dr Kiran- ”Today I decided to spend the day at one of Asha’s poorest slum colonies- Seelampur. Many of you on this group have been working with them for years. In the homes and lanes, I met families who showed me their empty containers, families whose wives and children were suffering because of the husband taking drugs, widows who had no support. The Warriors told me that for the cooked food that is distributed by the government at 4 pm, people stand in line from 1 pm onwards. In the hot sun at 40°C. There’s no shade. It’s common knowledge that the government ration shops that are mandated to give free grain to ration cardholders are dishonest and corrupt.
The alleys are narrow and dark, and there’s a stench in the air because of poor sanitation and choked drains. Hundreds of flies are everywhere.
I met many families we have been helping, and their hearts are filled with gratitude.
At the centre, we ran a baby clinic and gave out Child Nutrition Kits. The previously healthy children had mostly become malnourished, which is what I was expecting. I’m so glad that with your help we could give them this kit including vitamin and mineral supplements.
I also noticed that many mothers were moderately to severely anaemic. I put them on long term iron and folic acid supplements.
One round of cash handouts and groceries has been given by Asha, and we are getting ready for the next.
Thank you all of your generosity that is saving so many lives in Seelampur.”
​
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​Dr Kiran visits families in Chanderpuri slum community

Dr Kiran- ”Today I spent the afternoon in Chanderpuri slum colony. We gave out Child Nutrition Kits, after which we visited the families. Social distancing in the lanes and homes was a near impossibility. The streets are way too narrow, and each home is really small. The containers for rice, lentils, and other necessities were nearly empty. People were in great financial distress. At the same time, they could not stop saying thank you to me for whatever we had done for them. We have already given one round of cash and groceries, and the listings are being prepared for the next round. I met many widows and extremely poor families. It was heartbreaking.

The Asha Corona Warriors Sonam, Arif, Babita, and Parvez are doing wonderful work under the guidance of the Asha team. They themselves are suffering huge financial hardships that we are trying to alleviate.”
​
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​Asha Corona Warriors continue visiting each home displaying love and compassion

​Dr Kiran- ”While slums, in general, are shunned these days for fear of COVID-19, with no political representatives, charities, government officials, coming anywhere near them (excepting for policemen and sanitary workers), the Asha Corona Warriors and the team have been relentlessly going from home to home in the Asha communities since the lockdown on March 24th. Here are some beautiful pictures of love and compassion towards the little children being shown by the Asha family, providing for them, as well as feeding them with their own hands.”
​
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​Abhishek recounts his journey from the slums of Delhi to the University of Sydney

​Asha’s first beneficiary of the Sydney Scholars India Equity Scholarship, Abhishek, recounts his journey from the slums of Delhi to the University of Sydney. 

You can read his interview here: https://bit.ly/2T6Vlia

​Asha distributes aid to the helpless by the riverbed slum

​Dr Kiran- ''This is a touching story of a poor woman with a blind husband and young children. Very telling of the state of affairs of the most vulnerable among the poor.''
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​The adverse effects of COVID-19 in the slums

Dr Kiran- ”Dear friends, this incident throws light on the heartbreaking effects of Covid-19 in the slums.

A 16-year-old boy called Chand, living in an Asha slum called Kalkaji, was suffering from epilepsy and under treatment from a public hospital. Because the hospitals are not focusing on non-COVID patients, his parents could not take him for continued treatment. He had severe convulsions, and the family and Asha Corona Warriors made numerous calls to ambulance services as well as the police. No one came. The boy breathed his last in front of everyone. The mother’s sobs were uncontrollable. They did not have a single rupee at home to arrange for the burial. I was sent the news of this and immediately arranged for funds to be handed over to the family for the child’s burial. The Asha Team and Warriors were constantly with the family, offering consolation and comfort.”
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​Asha celebrates Mothers in slum communities

In the words of Dr Kiran- ”Today’s post is dedicated to all the mothers in our slum communities. Life has already been hard for them, living in their shanty homes. Having to live in a small hut, cook, and look after the family including young children, struggle to fill water, struggle to use a toilet with dignity, struggle to find work, struggle with domestic violence and sexual harassment, struggle to get decent care during pregnancy, this was what life was like before Asha. The lives of mothers have changed a lot for the better under Asha’s care.

However, Covid19 has shown me heartbreaking circumstances our mothers have had to endure. Nothing is more sorrowful than seeing your children hungry and starving. Many mothers wept tears of anguish and gave up hope during these dark days.

Then you entered their lives with your spirit of kindness, your generosity, and your conviction to help. And we began giving them money and groceries for their children and their families. You brought hope and comfort into their lives.

I hope you will enjoy these lovely pictures of mothers and children whom you have been able to feed through Asha.
Happy Mothers Day to all you mothers out there as together we unite our hearts with the mothers in our slum communities. May we continue to help the many mothers and children who are still suffering and desperately need our help.”
​
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​Asha Corona Warriors continue to comfort and inspire people in slum communities

”One of the wonderful outcomes of our activities during this pandemic has been the opportunity by the Asha Corona Warriors, to develop leadership skills. They are learning to listen with empathy and show sincere interest in the lives of others. The poor are feeling heard and understood. They are also learning resilience, and how to keep providing leadership with optimism during hard times. They are learning to be courageous and brave, no matter what the circumstances. They have faced a multitude of problems, and yet they always try to find solutions rather than give up. They are inspiring the communities to trust them. They have a wonderful team spirit and they are all working towards common goals. They are learning integrity and honesty. What an awesome opportunity! Such lessons are best learnt during life’s most difficult and challenging times.”- Dr Kiran
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​Child Nutrition Kits to be distributed in Asha slum communities

”Hello folks, I am determined that every child under five in All the Asha communities receive adequate nutrition from us, so that wasting, stunting, and nutritional deficiencies are not allowed to occur. We will give these Child Nutrition Kits to every child from 1-5 years of age in every Asha slum community. It will be a huge project, but the team and the Warriors will reach out to every child.

I would also like to throw some light on the deficiency of the micronutrient Zinc in young children. Zinc plays a major part in our body’s metabolic functions. Deficiency of zinc can impair the physical growth in children, and lead to the development of pneumonia and diarrhoea in young children. Zinc supplementation will cut short the severity and duration of diarrhoea, and reduce child mortality. Night blindness is prevented when given along with Vitamin A. It also greatly improves the child’s immune system.

Zinc is highly inadequate or almost absent in the diet of poor children because it is found mostly in animal proteins, particularly fish, cashew nuts, and other dry fruits, which the poor cannot afford. Asha, therefore, gives Zinc supplements and it is critical that we continue this process during the lockdown.

Less than 1% of children under five in the slums are receiving a minimum acceptable diet during this pandemic. Thank you to every one of you for your generosity that is enabling us to help hundreds of young children in the slums.”- Dr Kiran
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Asha focuses on providing aid to children in the slums as the lockdown extends

​”Dear friends, the Govt of India has extended the lockdown in the country until May 17th. The total duration of the lockdown is uncertain. This has caused the urban poor to plunge into further despair. Their complete collapse in income is having serious consequences. Asha is focusing on children under five in the slums because these income shocks are having a devastating effect on them. Asha has worked very hard over the years in bringing down the infant and child mortality in our slums over the years. If we do not act urgently, all these gains can be reversed. The longer the shutdown, the less likelihood of the families being able to snap back, and this will have long-running consequences on child poverty. If the children face acute deprivation of nutrition during the critical window of early childhood, they are likely to face lifelong challenges as their neurological development is impaired.

Asha is, therefore, making Urgent Interventions in providing High Energy High Protein Foods with Vitamin and Mineral Supplements to All children from 1-5 years of age, as far as our resources will enable us.

Thank you for your kindness and your generosity. These children would have had a bleak future without your help. I encourage you to continue your resource mobilization efforts so that every Asha child from 1-5 years of age can be rescued from the devastating effects of child hunger during these critical years.”- Dr Kiran
​
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Asha Corona Warriors reach out to comfort slum dwellers during this pandemic

​”Hello, friends, I have been receiving reports of the poor scrambling to get food when government workers come to distribute it at various places in the city. People fall down and get hurt, and push their utensils forward, with the food falling all around, also on their bodies. There is food on the ground, food falling all over the distribution tables, and even in people’s hair.
The Latin word for Dignity is Dignitare which means worthiness. The poor have an inherent right to be respected and valued for their own sake. Such methods of food distribution violate and diminish the self-worth of the poor. They were all earning their wages honestly and feeding their families before the lockdown.

Whether it is giving out groceries, or educating families, or treating the sick, or offering help and advice, the Asha Corona Warriors greet each person and each family respectfully and as equals, remembering that they are hard-working people, who at this time are dependent on others to stay alive, through no fault of their own.”- Dr Kiran
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​Malnutrition Food Kit provided to poorly nourished children in the slums

”Hello folks, today I would like to draw your attention to Hidden Hunger in children. This is the Hunger caused by a deficiency of essential nutrients in the food. Malnourished children in the slums suffer from Iron Deficiency Anemia that is primarily due to poor intake of iron in the diet. Iron is essential for carrying oxygen to our cells and for a number of metabolic processes in the body. Our malnourished children are showing symptoms of iron deficiency: looking pale, feeling lethargic, feeling sleepy, always tired, often irritable, or getting headaches or feeling dizzy.

We have created a Malnutrition Food Kit for our poorly nourished children and are giving this kit out to every child under five years of age who needs it. Jaggery is an important component of this kit because apart from providing energy, it is a rich source of Iron. Iron Syrup is being given to each child along with the Food Kit. Very many thanks to all those who have helped us with resources to give our young children in the slums groceries for a nutritious diet.”- Dr Kiran
​
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Asha caters to the severe malnutrition children in slum communities

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​Asha provides relief to slum dwellers living by the riverbed

”These are some of the worst affected and poorest families in the slums. It’s almost impossible for them to survive. The men are mainly cycle-rickshaw pullers whose earnings are already meager. The lockdown has meant that the families are on the brink of starvation.

Asha is helping every family with groceries and cash handouts to buy cooking fuel, milk for their children, vegetables, and medicines. Asha is grateful to all of you who are working so hard to mobilize resources for this massive undertaking that will go on for some weeks. We fully realize that you are grappling with a multitude of problems at your end. Thank you very much.”- Dr Kiran
​
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Asha Corona Warriors prompt actions saves a slum community

​”This patient is a COVID-19 positive case. He was reported immediately by our Corona Warrior, tested and confirmed. He and his family were taken to hospital and the entire community was sealed. The Warrior informed the local municipal councillor and requested her to send the municipal authorities to sanitize the entire area. The councillor responded immediately. The prompt actions of our Warrior have hopefully arrested the spread immediately. The Warriors are visiting every home, paying special attention to the elderly, the sick, patients suffering from Tuberculosis and chronic ailments, and distributing the Asha Malnutrition Kits to the malnourished children in their communities.”- Dr Kiran

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​Asha delivers relief to slum communities

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​Asha caters to the severe malnutrition children in the slums

”Hello everyone, today onwards we have begun focusing on children under five years of age who are suffering from malnutrition due to food insecurity. The impact of malnutrition in this age group is severe. They can experience stunting, impaired mental growth resulting in impaired learning abilities in later life, serious and life-threatening childhood illnesses and much higher rates of infant and child mortality.
​
Our Childhood Malnutrition Kit consists of groceries that provide high-quality proteins and carbohydrates for energy. Iron and Folic Acid, B Complex and Zinc supplements are critical to their nutritional needs and fill the gap of micronutrients that are not available in their diet.”- Dr Kiran

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​Asha Community Health Volunteers provide medications to the sick in the slums

”Hundreds of sick patients finally get medications through Asha’s Community Health Volunteers. Expectant mothers, postnatal mothers and newborns are given special attention. Our CHV’s are well trained and seasoned through having provided primary care to our communities for years and years. They are sincere, compassionate, and provide good quality care at no cost. They are saving the sick from getting expensive and often dangerous treatment from quacks and local healers. The public hospitals and primary care centres are mostly closed. If we don’t begin giving routine immunizations soon, there will be a resurgence of measles, serious forms of childhood tuberculosis, poliomyelitis, Hepatitis B and many other life-threatening illnesses. Our clinics can open only when public transportation is resumed.”- Dr Kiran
​
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​Relief provided to the disabled in Asha communities

​”Hi folks, today’s update is about the hundreds of disabled persons in the Asha communities. The lines to collect cooked food provided by the government are long, and the moment the food arrives, people scramble for it, falling over each other to fill their pots and pans. Older people fall down and get hurt. It’s impossible for the disabled and the helpless to get this food. The Asha Corona Warriors are reaching out to every disabled person who has no support. Giving them groceries. Giving them money. Giving them emotional support and comfort. Visiting them often to check on them. The amazing grassroots infrastructure in the form of a well-organized team of Corona Warriors and Asha staff members to guide them makes it possible to reach out to each disabled person in need, not leaving even one. Sadly, we do not see anyone else in the slums except for the local police now and then. No government officials, no NGO’s. The Warriors are brave, sincere, and compassionate.
​
These are but a few examples. We have only just begun our work among the disabled. The combination of poverty and disability makes this group of people be among the most vulnerable in slums. Even without Covid19, they generally suffer from poorer health, are less literate, are unemployed or marginally employed, socially excluded, and have more severe income poverty.- Dr Kiran

DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha Community Health Volunteers provide primary health care in Asha communities

”Asha Community Health Volunteers have begun the wonderful work of providing Primary Health Care in Asha communities. They have:
-Oral Rehydration Solution packets for young children to prevent dehydration due to diarrheal illness. Dehydration can be life-threatening especially in the summer.
– Paracetamol for fever and aches and pains
– chlorpheniramine for colds and allergies
– Gentian Violet Paint(1%) for Pyoderma( boils etc)
– Iron and Folic Acid for expectant as well as lactating mothers
– antacids
– antispasmodics to relieve abdominal pain
– Co-trimoxazole for bacterial stool infections
– Iron and B Complex Syrup for children under 5 years.
– antibiotic ointment and dressing material for wounds and injuries ”- Dr Kiran


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​Relief and support provided in Asha slums

​DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Essential groceries distributed to the most needy slum dwellers

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​Slum families receive groceries in the Asha slums

”Focusing on families with young children. They are stressed, anxious, scared about the present and the future. Many have become aggressive and irritable, many are depressed, others have other types of psychiatric problems. They are not going to school where they would get a daily mid-day meal. They have no structure left in their lives. Many are feeling lost, not knowing what the future holds.”- Dr Kiran
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​Slum dwellers receive assistance from Asha during the lockdowN

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Asha slums provided with relief in the time of COVID-19

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​Asha warriors hand out essential groceries to the slum residents

”All slum residents who are in distress and who have received groceries have asked us to convey their heartfelt gratitude to those who have so freely given and stood with them during the toughest of times in their lives. Many of you are going through hardship yourselves, and yet you are opening your hearts with such generosity. We have a long way to go, but we will keep being hopeful, and courageous, and compassionate. We must not leave a single person hungry. And may all the Warriors stay protected from harm.”’- Dr Kiran

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​Asha distributes groceries to the needy in the slums

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​Groceries distributed to families in slum communities

”At this time, the Asha family is thinking of the entire world; people are going through every dimension of suffering- physical, psychological, economic, and so much uncertainty and anxiety about the future. May the doctors, nurses, paramedics, the supermarket staff, the police, volunteers and Corona Warriors all over the world be protected and safe as they live by the highest of human ideals. Let us choose hope, choose life, choose determination, choose compassion. Together we can work hard and make things better.
​
A small selection of pictures of groceries being given by Asha to families in various slum communities. It would have been impossible without your generosity.”- Dr Kiran

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​Asha provides groceries to slum dwellers

”We are giving groceries to the needy, poor families with children and out of work, expectant mothers, patients suffering from TB and other diseases, widows, the list goes on. Each bag has Wheat Flour, Lentils of two kinds, cooking oil, salt, tea leaves, sugar, turmeric and red chilli powders, and Dettol soap.”- Dr Kiran
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Asha COVID-19 Emergency Response

In Dr. Kiran’s words: “Dear friends, this video is dedicated to the Asha Corona Warriors and to the many thousands of slum residents whose lives are being touched by Asha. Let us put ourselves in their shoes for a few minutes, see through their eyes for a few minutes…”

​Asha Warriors spread cheer and comfort in slum homes

”I encouraged the Warriors to go out today with a smile and spread cheer and comfort in every home they visit. To bring comfort and consolation to all. To bring reassurance to all. This reassurance and comfort are based on the trust the Asha Warriors repose in me and in Asha. That we will meet the needs around us. That we are fearless. That is reassurance is rock solid. That they are not just empty words. Fearlessness and Hope are not automatic. They require a great deal of Courage, of Determination, of Wisdom, of Leadership, of Hard Work. – Dr Kiran
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​Asha provides financial aid to slum dwellers

​DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha warriors bring comfort and peace in slum homes

”The Asha Corona Warriors through their daily commitment and sacrifice, have built trust and earned the respect of the communities they serve. Through their cheerful and calming conversations with people, they have brought in comfort and peace in homes. Their only motive is to do good for their communities and help protect families and individuals that are most vulnerable due to ignorance and fear and serious financial difficulties. All this comes at great personal cost, and builds their moral character beautifully along the way.”- Dr Kiran
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​Asha provides financial aid to slum families

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​Asha continues to distribute cash and food to needy families

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​

​Asha Warriors reach out to thousands of slum dwellers

”There are indications that the lockdown that was until April 14th, will be extended until the end of the month. This has created more fear and anxiety in slum communities. The Asha Corona Warriors are constantly reassuring them and comforting them that they will be there for them until the end. They spend hours and hours every day reaching out to thousands of people. The food subsidy ( ration) that the government has pledged to provide is filled with complex problems at the delivery level. The online system for registration mostly doesn’t work, in spite of the Warriors trying hard to register the families. Asha continues to distribute cash and food to needy families whose numbers go up rapidly each day.”- Dr Kiran
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​Asha Corona Warriors display Asha value ‘Generosity’ in the slums

”Asha Corona Warriors buying food from their own few resources and sharing with those in need. What wonderful generosity!”- Dr Kiran
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​COVID-19 relief update from the Asha slum communities

”A few pictures from slums all over the city. Every day the requests get longer; people have no work, no money. My Warriors are comforting and consoling them, showing empathy, care and compassion to one and all.”- Dr Kiran

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​Corona warriors spread awareness and safeguarding guidelines within the slums

”Let us pay tribute the Asha Corona Warriors and Corona Warriors all over the world who have demonstrated the mental and moral strength to go out in such dangerous and difficult circumstances. They have heard the call and have stepped up, taking the risk of their own bodily harm. They are leading by example, going above and beyond the call of duty, and demonstrating the strength to do what is right. What brave choices they have made.”- Dr Kiran
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​Asha provides financial aid to slum dwellers by the river bed

”Today’s financial help was focused on the River Bed slum near the city’s main bus station, and on families in Seelampur. Rickshaw pullers, carriers of heavy loads on load pulling rickshaws, abandoned women, widows, sick people, the disabled…..the list goes on. The families have fallen into a huge financial crisis because there’s no work. The rickshaws are not allowed to leave the slum communities. Some families have food subsidy cards, others don’t. The distribution slips are given out every morning and if you are not lucky, you come back the next day. And the next. I am committed to reaching out to each family in great need, no matter what. And the Asha Corona Warriors and team members are on the frontlines identifying families and carrying out the task of disbursing the funds. Thank you for your generosity. It would have been impossible without you.”- Dr Kiran

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Asha Corona Warriors lead the way in the slums

''What would we have done without our absolutely amazing Asha Corona Warriors? They are working with tremendous commitment and self-sacrifice. They are visiting every single home to educate residents. You will be surprised at how many hundreds of people have no real idea of the disease and the proper methods of taking precautions.” – Dr Kiran
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​Asha warriors providing relief to Asha communities

”Some images from Asha Communities all over Delhi. Not one is left out. Every home is being visited, every family being educated. The police are helping the poor too with food, and Asha Warriors are providing meals to the police who are working long hours every day. So many stories of compassion and generosity and gratitude.”- Dr Kiran

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Relief update from all Asha communities

”Hello folks, I’ve sent you a selection of photos from many Asha communities all over the city. We are also working with the Heads of the Police Stations. This would have been impossible without your help. Every Asha team member and volunteer joins me in saying thank you to each of you for your contributions, your thoughts towards us, and your prayers. We will be making cash contributions to various categories of people every day all through the week.”- Dr Kiran​
​
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​Asha Covid-19 Emergency Response

“My Communications Team has created a beautiful video of the amazing work of the Asha Corona Warriors. I am sending you the essence of the meaning of this song. Let us all watch it. And while watching it, pay tribute to them and pray for their safety.” -Dr Kiran

How shall this courage, this hope, bow down?
How shall this yearning go away?
The destination is hard to get to,
The shore is hazy, the heart is lonely
I will still continue to hope.
Many thorns stay strewn on the way
But we must walk on them
The evening may hide the sun
But the night has to pass.
This season will also change
Courage will bear fruit
The morning will dawn again.
We will be blessed with stability
The sunlight will appear from under the shadows
I pray to God that our destination of happiness and health embraces us soon.
Let the oath of love be spoken a hundred times
Let the declaration of love be tall
Let love be fully alive.

​Asha provides relief and funds to slum communities

”Hello folks, at last, we have been able to get Hand Sanitizer and Masks for our Asha Corona Warriors who are on the frontlines every day meeting hundreds of people in their communities. Financial assistance to the needy continues. We are being very careful to avoid crowds. Providing funds to various categories of people after prioritizing the needs in the communities.”- Dr Kiran

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Covid-19 relief update from Asha slums

”These are but just a few examples of financial assistance to those who are hurting the most. Next, we will be financially assisting TB patients and pregnant women. This will be impossible without your support. For those who have donated, thank you! For those who haven’t, please do! Any amount small or large will be gratefully received.”- Dr Kiran

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​Asha Corona Warriors assist slum dwellers in the Asha slums

”Asha Corona Warriors working with the police to help people keep distance as they wait in line for food grain subsidies from the government.”- Dr Kiran
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​Asha provides relief to slum dwellers in the midst of Coronavirus Pandemic

”The Warriors are visiting every home and offering emotional support aside from all the public health and cash assistance. People are lonely, anxious, frightened, uncertain about their future, afraid that they will run out of funds soon. Our Warriors are doing the best they can, giving them reassurance and giving them their phone numbers asking them to contact them straightaway if they need to.” – Dr Kiran

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​Reflections on Hope: Dr Kiran

​This is a season of one of the greatest challenges the world has ever faced. It may be a time to fight, a time to question, a time to mourn, but there is always one thing we can hold on to, Hope. Asha. Where there is life, there is hope. Hope will see us through our challenges. They will not dictate our destiny. Hope will. There is great strength in optimism. Let us surround ourselves with positive people who speak words of encouragement. This is not a permanent thing, we will surely get out of these troubles. Hope brings light into the darkest places we never thought will have light. That’s been my experience all through life. Let’s think of the challenges we have faced in the past, and have overcome them. Fear is a big hindrance to hope. Let’s give doubt and fearless room in our hearts to breathe. Hope is a beautiful thing. It gives us peace and strength and keeps us going when all seems lost. Hope is the only thing stronger than fear. Hope is Asha.

DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Asha slums Covid-19 Relief

Grateful, Hopeful, Consoled. 

​DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3

​Covid-19 update from Asha

“Hello, folks, in addition to all the measures we have been taking, I decided that it was important to give cash to those above 65 years of age who live alone. Also to widows, the disabled, and the poor who have no money. We have begun the cash distribution today and it will go on for the next few days as it will take time to cover all the communities. The elderly were so grateful. They are not connected to the rest of the world digitally, and isolation, anxiety, ignorance and fear can be terrible to deal with. I have asked the team to visit them every day and enquire after them so that they don’t feel alone and abandoned.” – Dr Kiran
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DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3 

​Corona virus update in Asha slums

”Hello everyone, our Asha Corona Warriors continue their fight. Those who are on daily wages are beginning to hurt. Many are already immunocompromised due to inadequate nutrition. Many are ignorant and illiterate and scared and do not have a good understanding of what is going on. Many are casual and don’t care. Many are restless because they just can’t sit in their shanties all day. There is no such thing as Work from Home. The food supply chain issues mean that lots of things are not available. We are watching the situation closely on a daily basis. I will keep sending you updates. – Dr Kiran
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DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3 

​Corona virus awareness in Asha slums

”Hello there everyone, the news has been moving rapidly with the goalpost changing every day. Delhi is under complete lockdown. People are moving out only for essential reasons. However, in the slum communities, the situation is different. It’s really hard to maintain social distancing, and for large families to stay together all the time in one small room. They are seen standing around in groups, playing cards in the lanes, lining up to go to the toilet, or playing together. Asha has formed 19 Asha Corona Warrior Teams made up of volunteers from various communities. Each team has a leader and they are patrolling the communities every day to spread awareness on the dos and don’ts during the Covid19 pandemic. They are visiting every home explaining the importance of social distancing and frequent hand washing. They are also offering to get groceries for the elderly and those at high risk. They understand the symptoms and are explaining to patients what is to be done. Some continue to gather in groups and it’s hard for the ambassadors to convince them of the seriousness of the situation.”- Dr Kiran
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DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3 

​Team from River NEW YORK volunteer at Asha

“I extend the warmest of welcomes to John and Sara and the team from The River in New York. They have been visiting Asha’s Jeevan Nagar community regularly since 2014. And Jeevan Nagar is cleaner, healthier, and much better educated through our partnership. The residents are happy, they love following the Asha values, many young people are at university. One of them Chandan on whose life they had a deep influence since his high school years, is at Imperial College London.

​Many women are empowered, there is peace and harmony, a strong sense of community, good relationships and friendships.
We can never thank you enough John and Sara and the River for our friendship that has resulted in this amazing transformation. Thank you for being committed to coming regularly; we all love having you.” – Dr. Kiran Martin

​Asha’s first beneficiary of the Sydney Scholars India Equity Scholarship

We wish Asha student Abhishek, the first beneficiary of the ‘Sydney Scholars India Equity Scholarship’ all the very best for his future as he beings to pursue ‘Master of Management’ at the prestigious University of Sydney.

Long-time supporters, Dr. Praveen and Nalini Prasad visit Asha

​Asha’s long-time supporters in Sacramento USA, Dr. Praveen and Nalini Prasad and their friend TJ visited Asha in January for two days. Dr. Nalini spearheads Asha’s fundraiser in Sacramento for the last many years.

To witness the life in the slum first-hand they spent their two days in the Asha’s Chanderpuri Slum Community. From interacting with the members of Bal Mandal (Children’s Association), Mahila Mandal (Women’s Association) and Asha students to visiting their homes understanding their perspective towards life. The Asha students shared accounts of their experiences at University and the exposure they got during their internship. They talked about the challenges they have faced in their lives, and how Asha is continuing to help them to become ‘change-makers’ in their own community.

On the second day, they held an interactive workshop with the Mahila Mandal where Dr. Nalini shared her own story and importance of a girl child. While TJ took a session with the Asha students where he spoke about the importance of meditation leading to mental peace and positivity in life.
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They also visited a slum community that is situated on the riverbed of Yamuna. It was overwhelming for them to observe the great level of contrast among the two communities – from a developed slum where Asha has been working for over three decades to an area where the intervention has just begun.

Dr.Kiran Martin featured in Femina Magazine

Dr.Kiran Martin’s humble beginnings and struggles in the founding of Asha were recently chronicled by Femina, the most popular women’s English magazine in the country. Dr.Kiran had a special feature in this monthly issue wherein her enthusiasm and pathos for the development of slum dwellers came to light.
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Femina was founded in the year 1959, since then it has been capturing the essence of the Indian woman. The magazine features women achievers who have left a mark in their chosen field. 

Hope and Spice Cookbook launched in India

Eleven months, twelve slum communities, women home chefs and their recipes together helped to create ‘Hope and Spice’. This has been a true labour of love by the enthusiastic duo Amanda Clegg and Victoria Byrne.. ‘Hope and Spice’ was officially launched in India on Oct 30th at the British High Commission.

This event was graciously covered and featured on one of the oldest and most reputed newspapers in the country ‘The Hindu’. The Hindu initially started in 1878 as a weekly and became a daily in 1889, it currently has a readership of about 22.58 lakhs along with various publications in other regional languages as well.

You can support ‘Hope and Space’ through social media channels Instagram and Facebook and purchase your own copy from the website http://www.hopeandspice.com/

Hope & Spice Cookbook launched at British High Commissioner’s Residence

​It was such a wonderful evening on 30th October at the launch of Hope & Spice in Delhi at the British High Commission! In a garden filled with twinkling lights, Dr. Kiran Martin introduced the authors of the cookbook- Ms. Amanda Clegg and Ms. Victoria Byrne to the audience and mentioned the painstaking effort undertaken by these authors to visit the women of Asha’s slum community for over a month to compile such an unique collection of 65 recipes.
The authors Victoria and Amanda had a happy reunion with the book’s contributors. “It’s wonderful to see them honoured tonight, ” said Amanda, “they were so happy to be given presentation pages of their recipes by Sir Dominic Asquith (the British High Commissioner).” Ramkali cooked her delicious gujiya and poppadoms to an audience of ambassadors and business leaders. Sir Dominic gave a heartfelt speech about this lovely book and cooked Rihana’s shami kebabs. Victoria said, “Talking to Asha supporters from Belgium to Japan has been absolutely incredible. I’m excited to see what they, and the corporate supporters right here in this city, will do next with this amazing charity.”
“This book is a testimony of Asha’s successful women empowerment programme” said Dr Kiran and urged everyone to buy the book and lend a voice to the women of the Asha slum community.

To purchase the Hope and Spice cookbook, write to us at info@asha-india.org or click this link to grab a copy today: https://hopeandspice-usa.com/

                                                             Hope & Spice Launched in USA

‘Hope & Spice’, cookbook is a unique collection of authentic Indian recipes collected from the women of the Asha slums together with inspiring stories of the ways in which their lives have been transformed. The book has been compiled by Amanda Clegg and Victoria Byrne, Friends of Asha - Great Britain. Hope & Spice was originally published in the UK, and Friends of Asha USA is happy to have worked with the authors to adapt this cookbook for US readers.
We are delighted to announce that Hope & Spice has just launched in the US! 🌟🎉 
​Available at Shopify, click this link to grab a copy today: https://hopeandspice-usa.com/

                                                                      Asha event at boston

​Addressing pupils at Driscoll School in Boston ( Brookline). Thanks to Steve Watson for arranging this event. I am hoping to reach out to pupils with the Asha message, in a large number of schools in Boston in the future. 

Asha events at the river

Our dear friends John and Sara Furste who lead the Asha Support Group at The River

​Little kids from The River NYC collected $5422 for Asha. How wonderful!

​The US Version of the cookbook Hope and Spice is out!

Asha Events at Boston

​Louanne and David Hempton hosting an Asha event at Jewitt House at Harvard. David is the Dean of Harvard Divinity School and Louanne is a long time Asha USA trustee. It was a wonderful gathering of Asha supporters of many years and gave us the opportunity to catch up on Asha updates and enthuse one another about Asha’s future plans.

​Louanne making introductory remarks. Thank you so much Louanne and David for hosting this event at your beautiful home.

​It has been pure joy to become friends with Steve Watson the pastor of Reservoir Church in Boston. The church has been supporting Asha’s work over the past 3 years, and teams have come out to Asha a number of times. Steve and I spoke together last Sunday, and the focus of our reflections was the Asha values and how they are transforming us all. Thank you to Steve and to Reservoir for such a wonderful partnership

                                                                  ASha EVents at SAcramento

Dr Kiran, Founder and Director of Asha was hosted by Friends of Asha Sacramento who organized the Asha Day beautifully at the DoubleTree Hilton in Sacramento, USA. Here are the glimpses of the events held at Sacramento in the words of Dr Kiran:

How shall I express my gratitude enough to Drs Nalini and Praveen Prasad, Manmohan Passi and the members of Friends of Asha Sacramento for the wonderful Asha Day event they organized beautifully at Double Tree Hilton in Sacramento. They worked tirelessly for 6 months, bringing together their family and friends to listen to the Asha story and to make contributions to the work.

The silent auction had lots of items that had been donated by hotels, companies, restaurants, stores, and so on. Guests bid on the items and funds were raised. Thank you Stacy for putting in such a lot of hard work to arrange the auction items.

Guests enjoyed drinks and starters followed by a delicious Indian meal and Indian desserts.

Presenting A Journey of Hope to one of the chief organizers, Dr Nalini Prasad.

Asha year book being presented to the other chief organizer Manmohan Passi, with thanks for the many young people the group has supported over the past 7 years.

With Chief Organizers Manmohan and Nalini.

Asha events at napa

In the month of September, there were numerous Asha Events held in the west coast of the USA. These events hosted Dr Kiran, Founder and Director of Asha. Here are the glimpses of the events held at Napa Valley in the words of Dr Kiran:

On 6th September I addressed a wonderful class of young people at Vintage High School in Napa. I hope the stories of our Indian children from the slums were an inspiration!

Addressing the members of the Kiwanis club at Napa. This was my 20th year of visiting them every year! They have been so generous and kind, and have always welcomed me in their midst with open hearts and hands. Thank you Kiwanians for this wonderful partnership.

It gave me great joy to speak to the Boys and Girls Club of Napa. Their clapping for each slum child as I told their stories, their wonderful questions, their excitement and enthusiasm, it all made for a memorable afternoon.

With Jan Thompson, my friend of 25 years, and wife of Congressman Mike Thompson, Representative of Napa, California. They have been hosting Asha Day every year for the past 21 years, serving the Asha communities with compassion and commitment. This year the event will be held on Sept 8 at the beautiful Black Stallion Winery.

On 7th September, I had a wonderful morning addressing the pupils of Valley Oak High School in Napa. It’s an alternative school, providing high school students with the final opportunity to graduate.
The teachers and students were excited and enthused by the many stories of the Asha young people. With the many challenges the students of Valley Oak are facing in their own lives, trying to graduate, their spirits were raised!

An article on Asha Day in the Napa Valley Register, the oldest and best known newspaper in Napa.

L-R: Kailash and Gisela Chaudhary, Founders of Asha Napa, who have poured their hearts and souls into Asha for over 20 years, paying for all the catering, the event expenses and making generous donations for the work.
Further right, Rohit Patel and his wife Mridula who have been wonderful friends and introduced us to Drs Nalini and Praveen Prasad who began the Sacramento chapter of Asha. Thank you to everyone of you!

As Kailash and Gisela are growing older, they have passed on the Asha legacy to their beautiful daughter Rita, who now heads the Asha Napa Chapter, and has arranged all the meetings and events for me at Napa this week. Thank you so much Rita!

9th September marked the 21st Asha Day in Napa Valley California, hosted by Congressman Mike Thompson and his wife Jan Thompson. The organizing committee of the event was led by Rita Bresee, daughter of Kailash Chaudhary who organized the first Asha Day event and for many years thereafter.

Congressman Mike Thompson, the elected representative of the valley for over 20 years, addressed the gathering, sharing his beautiful thoughts about the mission and work of Asha, and the Asha Napa partnership.

Live Auction being conducted by Ira Smith, a renowned Radio Journalist in Napa.

Jeet, the owner of Aroma Restaurant provided absolutely delicious Indian food on a complimentary basis for a gathering of over 100 people.

Congressman Mike Thompson requested donors to come forward to Fund A Need for the various Asha programs.
He also spoke about the US version of Hope and Spice, and urged supporters to sign up to show interest in ordering copies as soon as the book became available.

Rita Bresee the Chief Organizer, with Jan Thompson. Deepest gratitude to Rita and to each one who made the day so very special as we all thought of the wonderful people in the slum communities of Delhi.

L-R: Kailash Chaudhary, Founder of Asha Day, Jan Thompson, Congressman Mike Thompson and Asha USA Board Member Dr Peter Choo. Thank you Peter for taking the time to fly over to the West Coast from Boston to participate in the event and to meet with the friends of Asha in Napa.

Bidding adieu to Asha’s first Chevening scholar

The British High Commissioner Sir Dominic Asquith KCMG organised a reception at his residence to celebrate Chevening scholar Chandan’s journey to the UK. The august gathering included Australian High Commissioner- HE Ms. Harinder Sidhu, senior diplomats from various embassies, other eminent dignitaries, meritorious students from Asha slums and the Asha team. Sir Dominic started by congratulating Chandan and mentioning that Chandan will be a role model, mentor and an inspiration for thousands of students from the slums aspiring to become successful in various fields.

​Dr. Kiran shared a visual presentation about Chandan’s life from Jeevan Nagar slum to the hallowed portals to Delhi University and further to Australian National University and now heading towards the UK. Dr. Kiran mentioned how Chandan represented thousands of Asha children. 

Asha’s Internship Launch

A programme that started with just 26 students getting an opportunity to intern in the year 2012, has come a long way since its inception. It has been incredible to receive such an overwhelming response, with many more partners collaborating with Asha to provide a platform for the young talent of slums. Now in its eighth year, this programme has become one of the main highlights of our student’s journey.

​Asha’s Internship Programme for the year 2019 was launched at the Australian High Commission on 30th May 2019, which was attended by High Commissioners, diplomats as well as corporate partners.

​This year, sixty-one students have been selected for Internships in 13 organizations, High Commissions and Embassies. Till now Asha had over 300 interns in the period of 8 years. We are glad to have new partners on board that include the Embassy of Switzerland, Embassy of Denmark and Embassy of Peru.

Simon's Riding For a Reason #3

Simon Chegwyn, an old Asha supporter is clearing the decks once again to ride his motorcycle for the noble cause of Asha. Simon is going to start his third 'charity trip', which is going to be his longest one as of yet, soon.

He started his first 'charity trip' from the United Kingdoms to India in the year 2009 and did another a few years back. Please donate to Simon so that he can help transform the lives of Asha slum communities.

To Donate from the USA:  http://www.asha-usa.org/donate.html

Asha Events at East Coast, USA

In a series of wonderful celebrations overseas, the Asha family paved its way straight to the heart of people living in Boston and New York this month.
Steve Watson and his skilful team organized Asha Day at Reservoir on September 15. The one-day-long event was celebrated with full enthusiasm and joy by all the participants including Asha founder Dr Kiran and an Asha student. Usha, an Asha Graduate spoke of her praise-worthy journey with Asha and showed them one of her masterpieces. She is currently working as a video journalist at Desi Martini, Hindustan Times Media Limited, one of the leading media houses in India.

Another grand event, Asha Sunday was celebrated at the River in New York on September 16 by Asha’s supporters and friends including John, Sara Furste and team. Associate Director Godfrey Martin shared the milestones of Asha and its incredible journey since 1988. Usha also delivered a delightful speech on her experience with Asha that brought her a huge round of applause. The event concluded with mouth-watering snacks and Asha Photo-Exhibition.

​We want to express our gratitude to the entire organizing committee for both the events. It is with your support we are able to help the people living in the slums of Delhi.

Asha Events at Napa Valley

Asha Day was celebrated at Napa Valley by the Friends of Asha in California on September 8 this year. Congressman Mike Thompson and his wife Jan Thompson were the moderators at the event while Rita Bresee, daughter of Mr Kailash Chaudhary, was the chief organizer.

Kiwanis club Napa has been supporting Asha for the past 20 years, and it gave Dr Kiran and Usha great joy to be invited by them once again. Usha shared her story beautifully and Dr Kiran thanked them for their long years of support.

​Dr Kiran and Usha were interviewed by the well-known anchor of KVON radio Ira Smith. KVON invites Dr Kiran every year to share the Asha story that a large number of Napans are now familiar with. Usha, who regularly interviews well-known personalities as a part of her job, was excited to be interviewed on radio for the very first time!

​Dr Kiran and Usha speaking to high school students of Valley Oak School in Napa. Her story was received with much enthusiasm by the students, who are enrolled here to make up for the credits they need to graduate.

Dr Kiran and Usha were invited to address the students of Chamberlain School, a special school for children with court dates who have this one last chance to study and succeed in getting a high school diploma. They listened to Usha with rapt attention, many of them sharing some of the challenges she has faced, sharing the same fears and anxieties, and harsh living conditions. It was wonderful to see the support and mentoring the school teachers were giving these students.

Dr Kiran and Usha speaking to the Boys and Girls Scouts after school program in Napa.

American Embassy School students visits Asha

On 28th March 2019, the American Embassy School team of 25 students and five teachers visited Asha’s Kusumpur Pahari slum community.  As a part of their population studies project, the students were interested in learning about the life of the urban poor, the status of girls and women living in Delhi slums.

​Over a two-hour session, they interacted with the members of Bal Mandal (Children’s Association), Mahila Mandal (Women’s Association) and Asha students. They discussed the work they do and the difference it has brought about in their lives. The Children’s Association members talked about their desire to complete school and then go for higher education. Being of similar age groups, the students enjoyed this interaction and were very keen to know more about the life in the slums. AES students were delighted to hear many of the success stories.

​Their discussion on social issues like dowry, abortion, mental health, equality, gender bias and sanitation and hygiene in the slums with Asha’s women’s association and Asha students was highly engaging. After the discussion the students went for the community visit, to witness life in a slum first-hand. This being the first encounter with slum life for most of the students, they were amazed at the challenges people face in their day to day life.

GLOBAL ASHA MEET 2019

In a first of its kind unique and interactive meeting was held at Asha’s Mayapuri slum centre where Board Members and other important functionaries from Friends of Asha (FOA) across UK, Northern Ireland, USA and Australia participated.
The session started with introductions, the Global Asha team, students and the women association members took turns to introduce themselves. This was followed by a session of interaction between the bright minds (students) from across Asha’s slum communities and the Asha’s Global think tank.

In the post-lunch session the interaction was held. It was a wonderful brainstorming session with new ideas, creative inputs as well as strategic roadmap to take Asha forward globally. For many of the Board Members, the session was going back to the drawing board and explore new possibilities. Richard Leder (National Coordinator- AFOA) chaired the discussion describing the milestones in the relationship between FOA and Asha India, also explained the activities on resource mobilisation in their respective countries.
​Building relationships seemed to be “the key” to the future.

Richard Leder concluded the meeting suggesting more ways of sharing and increasing visibility. The last lap was the Community visit at Mayapuri with the global guests.
We are grateful to our Global Friends of Asha for all their time, enthusiasm and passion to work for the cause of Asha.