Illuminating Lives: Youth For Kids’ Impactful Solar Light Distribution After Cyclone YAAS

In 2022, a commendable endeavour was undertaken by the Y4K volunteers, who, with the backing of Love Without Boundaries, embarked on a noble mission to distribute solar lights among marginalized communities. Their unwavering dedication bore fruit as they were able to bring essential relief to children and families impacted by the catastrophic cyclone YAAS. Through their tireless efforts, Y4K volunteers made a significant difference in the lives of those in need, shining a light of hope in the midst of adversity. Through the distribution of solar lights, we were able to bring much-needed electricity to those who had been enduring the long-lasting consequences of the cyclone. It was an honour for us to make a difference in their lives during such a challenging time.

One of the regions where we extended essential relief for electricity was the Sunderban area of West Bengal. The community residing in this area primarily relies on low-paying jobs as labourers and fishermen in the city. These families often find themselves in particularly vulnerable and helpless situations.

The countless narratives of immense need and overwhelming gratitude have etched an everlasting impression on our hearts. It is our sincere desire to share a handful of these stories with you, as a means to illuminate the profound necessity and unwavering resilience exhibited by the families we have been fortunate enough to support thus far.

In a small mud house, 7-year-old Tamanna resided with her parents and younger brother. Tamanna, a diligent Grade 2 student, faced immense challenges in her young life. Her father, once a fisherman, lost his leg when a fishbone pierced his foot, leaving the family struggling to make ends meet. Their hardships multiplied during the Yaas cyclone, as floodwaters claimed a part of their humble abode. Seeking refuge in a temporary tent by the river embankment, they braved the adversities. Eventually, they repaired their home and returned.

However, darkness shrouded Tamanna’s evenings, hindering her studies and even simple tasks like using the washroom. Without electricity, she relied on a candle and her mother’s company to venture outside. Fear gripped her young heart. Yet, a ray of hope emerged when the LWB Foundation provided Tamanna with a solar light. With its warm glow, she could now complete her homework, study longer hours, and banish the darkness that once haunted her evenings. The gift brought not only light but also renewed determination to overcome the challenges she faced on her path to knowledge and a brighter future.

Riddhi, a 10-year-old girl, resided with her mother in a small hut tucked away in a corner of their village. Abandoned by her father at birth, Riddhi and her mother faced tremendous hardships, struggling to secure two meals a day, let alone luxuries like electricity. Their village lacked power, leaving them accustomed to a life in darkness. In the evenings, Riddhi relied on a kerosene lamp to study, aware of the risks it posed. A recent accident nearby, where a shop was engulfed in flames by an overturned lamp, reinforced the dangers.

Riddhi’s mother emphasized the value of a solar light: A safer and more cost-effective alternative that didn’t require purchasing kerosene and could even withstand the monsoons. The family received a solar light from the LWB Foundation, illuminating their lives with newfound brightness, which bought them joy. No longer shackled by darkness and the hazards of kerosene, Riddhi could study without fear, and their humble abode radiated with hope and gratitude for the precious gift they had received.

Sathi, a remarkably bright 7-year-old, defied norms by studying in Grade 3 instead of Grade 1. Despite the academic leap, she thrived without feeling overwhelmed. Her father, a migrant worker, visited their village once a year, toiling to secure a better future for his family. Until then, Sathi and her mother grappled with the challenges of living in a village plagued by frequent power outages. The darkness posed risks, especially with the presence of wild creatures like snakes and crocodiles. Sathi’s mother cautioned her against venturing alone, even for basic needs like using the toilet.

However, the LWB Foundation intervened, gifting Sathi a solar light. The precious device brought relief, alleviating her mother’s worries. With the solar light, Sathi could navigate the darkness safely, free from fear and empowered to continue her studies with unwavering determination.

In the same spirit as Tamanna, Riddhi, and Sathi, LWB has been dedicated to the mission of “Empowering lives and Inspiring hope” in numerous children and their families. The support and efforts of the LWB community have made this relief possible, and our gratitude knows no bounds. If you, too, wish to join us on this transformative journey, where we create a positive impact in the lives of those in need, click on the link provided below. Together, we can make a lasting difference.

https://lovewithoutboundaries.in/community-signup