BE Change Meal Program Continues During Pandemic
In light of the coronavirus pandemic affecting people across the world, on March 13th the Government of Bihar required all schools and colleges to close until at least March 31st. As families across Bihar adjust to the new environment, BE Change partner school Prema Metta Orphanage School Trust is helping students and their parents by sending food home in place of the free lunches they would otherwise receive through their BE Change-funded school meal program.
Shortly after the school closure announcement was made, BE Change consulted with Anup Kumar, founder of Prema Metta, on how best to serve its students during the shutdown. As many of the school's students come from working families that may rely on nutritious, free school meals to keep their sons and daughters fed, it was apparent that the shutdown could have negative health impacts on students and negative economic impacts on their families. In order to help alleviate at least one concern during this uncertain and difficult time, Mr. Kumar quickly arranged to use the BE Change funds that support his school’s meal program to send two weeks’ worth of dry rice and lentils home with each student. Through this initiative, Prema Metta has shown that its 65 young students and their families can count on the school’s support, wherever they may be.
BE Change is proud to sponsor the meal program at Prema Metta, which continues to feed young students in need, and we sincerely thank you for your support. During this challenging time, we wish the best for you and your family as well as all students, teachers and school staff in Bihar.