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.”
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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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DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy
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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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.”
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
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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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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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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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.
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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The girls of Mayapuri were happy and relieved to receive menstrual hygiene products from Asha today.
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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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.”
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
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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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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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.”
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
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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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
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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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.”
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
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.”
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
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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DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
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
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: bit.ly/2tFvdy3
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
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: bit.ly/2tFvdy3
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
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
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
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
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
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
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
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
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
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
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
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
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
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
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
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
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
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
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
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
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
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
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
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
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
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
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
-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
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
Relief and support provided in Asha slums
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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
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
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
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
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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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
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
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
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
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
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
Asha provides financial aid to slum dwellers
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
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
Asha provides financial aid to slum families
Asha continues to distribute cash and food to needy families
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
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
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
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
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
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
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
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
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
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
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
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
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
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
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
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
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.
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
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
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
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
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
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
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
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
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
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
Asha slums Covid-19 Relief
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
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
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
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
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
DONATE FOR ASHA’S COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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/
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.
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/
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.
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Asha events at the river
Our dear friends John and Sara Furste who lead the Asha Support Group at The River
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Little kids from The River NYC collected $5422 for Asha. How wonderful!
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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!
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!
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
We are grateful to our Global Friends of Asha for all their time, enthusiasm and passion to work for the cause of Asha.