Our CAPS (Child Adoption Program Students) are now young professionals who are earning and self-reliant. On the occasion of the birthday of our mentor, Mr. S. Vijay Kumar, the children proactively came together to donate food to those in need. They recognized it as an opportunity to give back and share their blessings.

What made this initiative special was that it came entirely from the CAPS themselves. No one asked them to do it. They identified the need, discussed how they could help, and planned everything from start to finish on their own.

Even with their busy work schedules, they made time to meet beforehand to plan everything and assign responsibilities (such as buying ingredients, cooking, packing, and distributing). They approached every task with attention to detail, including preparing the gulab jamuns the night before for the best flavor and texture. Despite facing heavy rainfall while purchasing the ingredients the day before the donation, they stayed determined and carried on without postponing the initiative.

They joyfully cooked together, preparing meals that included rice, mixed vegetable curry, dal, rasam, chutney, papads, curd, a banana, gulab jamun, and a bottle of water. They distributed the meals in two locations. Seeing the smiles and gratitude of those who received the food left the CAPS feeling fulfilled. They expressed that there was a special kind of happiness in knowing that their money, time, and effort were going towards something meaningful.

As mentors, it was a proud moment to see our CAPS take action that positively impacted the community. This was a reflection of the empathy, responsibility, and compassion they had internalized over the years. Through this thoughtful act, the CAPS showed that the values they grew up with continue to guide them as adults.

The CAPS are eager to continue undertaking more initiatives.