World Vision India and NDTV joined hands to support millions of children and their families across India who continue to face hunger and inadequate nutrition caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The two-hour telethon which aired on Sunday, 17th May, from 7 pm to 9 pm was hosted by Dr. Prannoy Roy and other leading NDTV journalists. Focussing on the issue of hunger, and how the COVID-19 pandemic has left millions of vulnerable children and communities struggle for a decent meal, this bi-lingual (English & Hindi) programme appealed for support from viewers towards World Vision India’s relief efforts across the country.
WV India has been responding to the needs of families affected by the lockdown to curb the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. Through our COVID-19 Response programme, over 3 million people have benefited directly through distribution of masks, gloves, PPE for medical practitioners, hygiene supplies, food packets, dry rations, educational supplies for children and others. Around 1 million people have been reached through awareness programmes on COVID -19 prevention and care.
The objectives of this campaign were to
- provide food security by distributing cooked food packages and dry ration kits
- Support the restoration and improvement of livelihoods to increase, diversify, stabilise and strengthen existing sources of income
- Support health facilities and health workers with essentials including personal protective equipment (PPE) kits, gloves, sanitisers
- educate vulnerable communities and families on COVID-19 prevention, sexual abuse, domestic abuse and mental health.
Eminent personalities from the field of entertainment, academics, arts and corporate sectors shared their opinions on the issue of hunger and encouraged viewers to be part of this campaign to end hunger.
“It is terrifying what is happening with the children right now and how people especially children are suffering without food,” said world renowned and Oscar-winning music composer, A.R. Rahman
When a strong defence against the virus is good nutrition and strong immunity, thousands of vulnerable children and their parents are uncertain of their next meal.
This Telethon provided an opportunity for the Corporates to stand for a cause, share their views on the plight of children and pledge financial support towards the Covid-19 response of World Vision India and showcase their responsible citizenship to the larger public.
With support from generous donors, we were able to raise over 6 crores through the campaign. You too can help provide a better life to vulnerable children and families.
Join us at worldvision.in/togetherwithchildren