Mandali provides vital aid to children’s home

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Members of the Balgovind Road Nadawa Satsang Ramayan Mandali with the staff of Saint Minas Children’s Home in Votualevu, Nadi. Picture: SUPPLIED

Since its inception in 2019, the Balgovind Road Nadawa Satsang Ramayan Mandali has been committed to charitable work, particularly during challenging times.

Post Shri Krishna Janmashtami celebrations, the mandali responded to an appeal from a former teacher at St Minas Children’s Home in Votualevu, Nadi, by prioritising support for the 23 children living there.

A contribution of $200 and approximately $1500 worth of groceries was made to assist the children, who ranged in age from 2-17 years old.

Mandali secretary Rajnesh Ishwar Lingam said their mandali operated under a strict non-discrimination policy, ensuring that aid was given without regard to gender, ethnicity, or colour.

“We plan to come back in January next year and donate stationery and bag packs to 23 kids who are attending school,” Mr Lingam said.

“Bulk of the funding was provided by friends and family members in Balgovind Rd and overseas.

“The family members residing overseas felt that they had an obligation to assist their motherland. The support from the donors was tremendous.

“We have assisted families as far as the North with food packs and water bottles during natural disasters.

“After Ram Navami, our mandali members donated $200 to the Fiji Cancer Society and WOWS Kids Fiji. This is an annual event.”

He said throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the mandali played a crucial role in supporting families across Fiji, including remote northern regions.