<div dir="ltr"><div dir="ltr"><b>Lion Ravi Prakash</b></div><div dir="ltr"><br></div><div dir="ltr">Noble deeds have the power to inspire and create a ripple effect that magnifies the impact of our Lions organization. Such is the case with the "Feed the Hungry Program" initiated by PMJF Lion Pesala Srikanth, a member of the Nandyala Seva Pragati Lions Club in District 316J. With the combined support of his home club and two other clubs in the same town, Lions Club of Nandyal and Lions Club of Nandyal Melvin Jones, a small beginning transformed into a mighty project, inspiring other clubs to follow suit. Today, we delve into the inspiring story of the "Feed the Hungry Program" and its incredible impact on the community.</div><div dir="ltr"><br></div><div dir="ltr">A Small Beginning with a Noble Cause:</div><div dir="ltr">Swami Vivekananda's powerful words, "An Innovative Idea Creates History," served as the catalyst for PMJF Lion Pesala Srikanth's idea. After extensive exploration and collaboration with local lion members, the program was launched with the aim of distributing free food to the companions of patients at the District Government Hospital in Nandyala. Recognizing that the majority of the patients were peasants, the initiative sought to alleviate the hunger and support those in need.</div><div dir="ltr"><br></div><div dir="ltr">From Small Project to Contagious Success:</div><div dir="ltr">What started as a small initiative quickly gained momentum and became a contagious success. Other Lions clubs, including Allagadda, Bethamcherla, Proddatur, Rayachoti, and more, were inspired by the noble cause and transparency of the "Feed the Hungry Program." They joined forces, amplifying the impact of the initiative across the region. The success of the project is a testament to the principle that when a cause is virtuous, there is no dearth of funds or support.</div><div dir="ltr"><br></div><div dir="ltr">Providing Sustenance and Hope:</div><div dir="ltr">Since its inception in the 2017-2018 period, the Lions Club of Nandyala has been providing food to the companions of patients at the District Headquarters Government Hospital every afternoon at 12:00 pm and in the evening at 7:00 pm. With more than 300 villages in the vicinity of Nandyal, patients and their companions visit the hospital from various communities and backgrounds. Each day, approximately 450 companions of patients receive nutritious meals, thanks to the support of generous donors who contribute voluntarily to this noble cause.</div><div dir="ltr">&nbsp;</div><div dir="ltr">Navigating Challenges and Making a Difference:</div><div dir="ltr">Even during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, the "Feed the Hungry Program" persevered. Temporarily halted during the first wave of the pandemic under the instructions of the hospital authorities, the initiative resumed once the severity of the crisis subsided. The Lions Clubs of Nandyala takes great pride in stating that, as of January 23, 2023, over 922,000 companions have been provided with food during the remarkable 1,821-day journey of the program.</div><div dir="ltr">&nbsp;</div><div dir="ltr">Spreading the Spirit of Service:</div><div dir="ltr">The inspiring service activity of the Lions Clubs of Nandyala has motivated eight clubs from Multiple 316 to initiate similar programs. These clubs have successfully completed 300 days of service, spreading the spirit of compassion and making a tangible difference in their communities.</div><div dir="ltr"><br></div><div dir="ltr">The "Feed the Hungry Program" by the Lions Clubs of Nandyala stands as a testament to the power of innovation, compassion, and collective action. Through their selfless efforts, they have not only provided sustenance to those in need but have also inspired others to join the cause. This remarkable initiative exemplifies the true spirit of Lions Clubs International, bringing hope, nourishment, and a brighter future to the lives of countless individuals. As we celebrate the history created by this innovative idea, we are reminded of the incredible impact we can achieve when we come together to serve those in need.</div><div><br></div></div>