In 15th May 2016, Bidyanondo started a unique project called ‘Ek Takay Ahar’, which literally translates to “Food for a Single Taka”. Currently, Ek Takay Ahar is Bidyanondo’s flagship project which lets hundreds of street dwelling children, beggars, and the homeless get their fundamental need of regular meal in exchange of a mere taka. While working on basic education for the street children, the team observed that these children cannot concentrate on their studies as they are deprived of their first basic need—food.
To solve this, the foundation came up with a policy to charge 1 taka so it doesn’t look like free handouts to children. For the children’s part, paying money, as little as it is, can be a matter of pride and allows them not to view themselves as beggars. This project has been providing nutritional lifeline towards Bangladesh’s street children. The team is now trying to include milk on the menu, so that children get food with proper nutritious values.
A lot of people help them voluntarily – university students, kids from schools and colleges, even those who are working in corporates – step up to support the cause voluntarily. The process usually has volunteers going to the market every day, buying groceries and help in cooking. The chef ensures the quality of the food first and if everything is good to go, the team distributes the boxes with a van and sells them to the children for 1 taka.
To support this noble venture, Pathao as an organization also stepped up. One of the major expenses incurred by Bidyanondo in executing this project is logistical support. In this regard, employees of Pathao came forward with their helping hand, aiding preparation and distribution process. In extension, Pathao allocated Pathao Cars from their platform to help transfer the food to the distribution location.