Annadanam: why feeding people comes first
By SDSVC Trust
Annadanam parama danam — the gift of food is the highest gift. Of all the trust's activities, the monthly meal at Venkatapuram is the simplest, and it is the one everything else grows from.
Food is the first door
A meal is how we meet people. The elderly widow who comes for Annadanam is how we learn she needs a roof repaired. The child who comes with his grandmother is how we learn he is about to drop out of school. Service begins with a plate.
How the programme runs
Annadanam is held on the first Sunday of every month at the community hall. Rice, vegetables, and fuel are purchased from donations; cooking and serving are done by volunteers from three villages. A typical month serves 200–300 meals at a cost of roughly ₹40 per meal.
How you can help
₹501 feeds a dozen people; ₹2,501 covers most of a month's vegetables. You can donate through our donate page, or better still, come and serve — the first Sunday of any month, from 8 AM.