Apna Bana Lo
In 2023, Chennai Food Bank, now known as RYA Metro Foodbank, commemorated 30 years of dedicated service with an initiative that reflected the heart of its mission—care, inclusion, and dignity. As part of the Apna Bana Lo programme, 1,008 children from orphanages and homes for the mentally challenged were taken on a deeply meaningful spiritual journey to Tirupati.
The journey was organised through a special chartered train, ensuring comfort, safety, and a sense of celebration for every child. For many participants, this was their first long-distance travel experience and their first opportunity to visit Tirupati, making the journey as memorable as the destination itself.
The purpose of this initiative was to mark a milestone not with ceremony alone, but with compassion in action. While Chennai Food Bank has served millions of meals over three decades, this effort focused on emotional and spiritual nourishment—recognising that joy, faith, and meaningful experiences are vital to holistic well-being, especially for children living without traditional family support.
Throughout the journey, the children were cared for with attention and warmth. Meals, snacks, gifts, and the sacred Laddu Prasadam were thoughtfully arranged, ensuring that the experience was complete and joyous. Every detail was planned to make the children feel valued, celebrated, and safe, transforming the pilgrimage into a cherished life event.
Community involvement was central to the success of this large-scale initiative. Members and volunteers accompanied the children throughout the journey, offering guidance, reassurance, and companionship. Their presence ensured that each child could experience the darshan with dignity and peace, free from worry.
The impact of Apna Bana Lo 2023 went far beyond the days of travel. For the children, it created lifelong memories filled with devotion, excitement, and togetherness. For caregivers and volunteers, it reinforced the belief that service, when guided by empathy, can transform lives in profound ways.
This initiative stands as a powerful expression of Chennai Food Bank’s 30-year legacy—one that continues to evolve while staying rooted in compassion. By celebrating the milestone through shared experiences rather than symbolism, the organisation reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing hearts alongside addressing hunger.
Together, we continue our journey towards a hunger-free world.