At Nooranad, a small town in Alappuzha, Kerala, a 58-year-old ordinary citizen has been taking an extraordinary step to combat hunger in his community. Despite his modest earnings working in a milk society, V K Rajendran alias Raju Kavumpadu has been running a “Food Almirah” in his locality, a public cupboard stocked with food packets available for anyone in need, free of charge.
Though Rajendran has been facing various personal and financial challenges, he remains dedicated to feeding the hungry through the “Food Almirah” by raising money from his modest income. “I’ve seen too many people go hungry to bed, and many are hesitant to ask for help. I decided it was time to do something about it,” Rajendran told “Open Digest“.
The Food Almirah placed at a busy intersection is filled daily with meal packets. “We stock the Almirah with 15 to 20 packed meals for the homeless as well as for people who struggle to afford a meal. The food is prepared in collaboration with the local Kudumbashree unit. The fund for preparing the food is either met by me or from contributions from like-minded donors,” Rajendran said.
Rajendran’s mission is to ensure that no one in his locality remains hungry, and he somehow raises the required fund to keep the noble project going. During times of fund crunch, we limit the serving. But we are committed to continuing with this Food Almirah project,” he added.
Rajendran also helps people by raising money for medical emergencies. He is supported by his family. As the Food Almirah continues to serve those in need, Rajendran remains humble about his contribution. “I’m just doing what I can. No one should have to go hungry, and together, we can make sure of that.”
