We are in this together!

Life around us has unexpectedly changed in more ways than one. As COVID-19 has become a global pandemic, communities around the world have gone into lockdown. Social distancing has become a part of our vocabulary and our lifestyle. Sitting in our homes, surrounded by our families, we have gained a new appreciation for things that we took for granted. More importantly, it has made us even more sensitive to the fact that there are many in this world who have been rendered even more vulnerable during these uncertain times. It is our responsibility more than ever to support these individuals to the best of our ability!

Chance Foundation powered by its supporters and volunteers has stepped up to do its part. Board unanimously agreed to divert funds towards COVID relief initiatives. Several key projects are already underway to support the needs of COVID impacted children, families and communities.

1) Locally, Chance has joined Indian Association of Minnesota’s (IAM) COVID 19 Relief efforts as a Platinum sponsor to collectively combat suffering and help people in our area at this time of great need. Chance has also donated 200 yards of fabric to make masks and gowns. Additionally, the funds will be used for several initiatives to support people with unemployment and mental wellness resources.

2) Chance Foundation has also pledged funds and volunteers to SEWA-AIFW who are doing a remarkable job providing meals to seniors, students and families in Twin Cities. A 5 meal supply for each senior costs $70. A 16 meal supply for each senior costs $175.

3) Chance has sent funds to its partner organization funds to Seva Sahayog specifically for food kits distribution. This will provide 2-3 weeks worth of food kits to about 350 families.

4) We have also extended funding to another partner organization Door Step School. Due to the extension of lockdown in India, the EACs are still closed. They are still maintaining contact with the parents at all sites and slums to convey homework activities for the children through them. Also, the organization with support from Chance and its other partners has been able to distribute 2247 food grain kits to more than 950 families. These kits include food grains (5kg Rice, 5kg Flour, 1 kg Daal, 1 kg Akhha Chana, 1 l Oil, 1 packet salt and spices) to families from stone mining, road construction workers, waste pickers from areas of Bhosari, Chikhli, Shivaji Nagar and Hadpsar.

5) Finally, Chance is supporting Akshaya Patra’s US arm. This organization has traditionally provided hot meals to school kids in India in more than 18 states. For COVID relief, they have re-purposed their kitchens to cook meals for anyone who needs food. They are also providing ration to folks. $25 feeds 2 people 2 meals a day for 21 days. If interested, you can learn more about this program in this video.

None of these contributions would have been possible without your generous donations and support and for that we extend our heartfelt thanks to you. As you can see a lot more needs to be accomplished and we value your continued association as we get through this difficult time together. Please Get Involved in whatever capacity you can. Every bit helps! Stay healthy and stay safe friends!