POOR REACHING THE POORER

There is a story told of a boy pestering his parents for a pair of best shoes. He made
them to climb from one shop to another. All of sudden he changed his mind not to
have one because he saw a boy without a feet.
‘Poor Reaching the Poorer’ is a unique programme conducted for the first time by
the students of Balayesu Vidyalaya, Viveknagar, Bangalore. These students are
mostly from lower middle class or below poverty level. About 500 Students from
class VI to X were divided into 50 groups with a leader. They raised fund by
sacrificing their pocket money. Students themselves identified the poor families
belonging to all religions around their vicinities.
On 21 st December these children along with a teacher surprised the deserving
families with a surprise pack containing provisions and warm clothing. With a
short prayer and Christmas wishes they returned to the school with hearts filled
with joy and inspirations. Every student was moved by this visit. Each one had a
unique experience to share. Reena of Std X said, “this is the best experience I ever
had”. Vijay one of the group leaders said “I saw another poorer than me”. Most of
them acknowledged that this is the best education they received. While thanking
the school management they also said, “we never go hungry when we are at
school, because we are served with hot mid-day meals…

Fr. John Sudeep
Manager and Correspondent
Balayesu Vidyalaya.