Kanan and Dhruv (names changed) are from remote hamlets in the Jawadhi Hills. Accessing healthcare means walking long distances to the main road, scarce public transport, and lost daily wages for their families. Both children live with thalassemia (a blood disorder). Every month, their families travel to CMC’s CHAD Hospital for life-saving blood transfusions. They are seeking not just treatment, but hope.

Often the children arrive at CHAD feeling weak and anxious, especially after the long travel. In these moments of vulnerability, the CHAD team steps in and provides the family with a hot, nutritious meal. This meal goes beyond mere sustenance; it symbolises compassion, dignity, and strength to confront the daunting challenges these families face.

Every month, around 550 free meals are provided to families admitted at CHAD. “We believe incorporating food into healthcare is essential, especially for families facing financial hardship,” says Dr. Zacharia. “In these situations, food does not serve as comfort; rather, it acts as treatment. Ensuring access to food allows the healing period in hospital to proceed uninterrupted and enables patients with treatable illnesses and excellent prognoses to complete their required course of care with dignity.”

This year, we aim to raise ₹8 lakh for free meals at CHAD – will you help serve compassion? Even a single meal makes a real difference – restoring a child’s strength, easing a family’s burden, and reassuring them that they are not alone. Friend, your gift can be that meal.