Pune: Our third distribution

Riley Magee in Pune 2011

Today was the third and largest distribution for this trip.

The SCAW foundation has once again had a successful allocation, warming the hearts of many Indian families. At the beginning we explained our reason for being there and introduced what they would be receiving later that day. As our team held up the different items in the bedkit, a wave of smiles appeared on the children’s faces.

The gratitude and appreciation the families displayed was really extraordinary.

Riley Magee
for Team Pune, 2011

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Belgaum: All’s Well In Hubli

Another big day for Team Belgaum.

We boarded the bus at 8:30 a.m. and headed to our next distribution – 900 bedkits to the children in need in and around Hubli. The distribution was only 10 minutes away from our hotel so we spent very little time on the bus today.

We arrived to a sea of welcoming parents, children and Hubli Rotarians and members of the Inner Wheel as shown in the video at right.

This welcome never gets old – it is always such a wonderful feeling to be able to walk out of the bus and greet as many people as you can before it is time to get to work.

The distribution began roughly at 9:30 a.m., following a ceremony headed by the local Rotarians. The distribution itself took place at a very large school – The N.L.E. Society’s Rotary English Medium Primary School. The stations were spread out, yet organized. The kids change-rooms were inside the classrooms on the main floor. The children were led up the stairs with a snack in hand to one of many classrooms where they waited for their turn to “come on down” and receive their bedkit. Because the school was so large, we worked with the Rotarians to set up a parent gallery so they could watch their kids get their picture taken and receive their bedkit, and then off they would go for the rest of the day.

From Belgaum 2011

Although this day was just like any other distribution day –- warm sunny weather, smiling children, grateful parents, and a strong group of volunteers working together for a wonderful cause –- there were always those little moments in between all the hard work that made each day special and unique. Such as today: an eight year old daughter of a Rotarian (pictured at left) was my little helper -- helping me organize the lines, ensuring the children’s ID cards were hidden away in their pockets just before picture time, and helping me entertain the kids while they waited. She was the perfect little helper, a very special person, and a great addition to the SCAW team today.

We wrapped up at around 3:00 p.m. and headed back to our hotel for our first real chance to relax since arriving in the Karnataka area. Tonight, we will spend with our hosts from the Rotary Club of Hubli.

Yes, all is well in Hubli

Tamara Kaftalovich
for Team Belgaum, 2011

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Pune: Another smooth distribution

From Pune 2011

Today was a joyful day.

We started our work by joining in with a parade of children clapping, dancing, playing musical instruments, leading us into the school yard. Some of our team members had the honour of riding in a cart behind an oxen which had been decorated in a myriad of colours for the event. The scaw distribution was a definite cause for celebration in this village!

We joined our Pune Rotarians in welcoming some Business School students who were brought by their teacher to participate in the distribution. These bright and eager students were there to learn about teamwork, about volunteerism, about community involvement, and they were a delightful addition to our International team.

From Pune 2011

Following our work, we were invited to eat lunch with the teachers and Rotarians and helpers. Sitting cross-legged on the floor of the school we enjoyed each other's company and the traditional local cuisine.

The work went smoothly, the children were happy, a good day had by all!

Debbie Dryden
for Team Pune, 2011

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Belgaum: 500 Bedkits in Bailhongal

From Belgaum 2011

Today is day four of the distribution. We board our van at 9:30 a.m. to make the 45-kilometer drive to Bailhongal. Typically, the road is good at the start but as we near our destination conditions deteriorate into a bumpy, pothole-filled ride. Progress is slow. No matter. We are able to experience the countryside and the small villages we pass through. We see cotton growing for the first time.

By 10:40 a.m. we arrive at the destination site and are greeted by a mass of people. This is a distribution of 500 bedkits so there are at least 1,000 waiting. Our welcome is always emotional and overwhelming for us. We feel the crowd's anticipation and excitement that we are there. Flowers are presented to the team.

We spend time with the parents, children, and young uniformed Cadets who are volunteering their time to assist us. These young people speak some English and want to know about Canada and ask if we like India. The distribution begins and the first children are brought forward for their pictures to be taken. All goes well and the 500^th bedkit is presented bringing our total distributed to 2,250 just over half way to the 4000.

From Belgaum 2011

Into the van and off to lunch. It is 3:50 p.m. The team is delighted to see our hosts have included french fries with our meal! When we are finished there are more handshakes and congratulations on a successful distribution. Back into the van and we are off to Hubli 95 kilometers away. We are told it will take a little over an hour to get there but two-and-a-half hours later we pull into our hotel. It is 7:30 p.m. As we are checking in, a bride, her parent, and her attendants walk through the lobby on her way to be married.

In India, every moment is a picture.

It has been a good day.

Lesley Todd
for Team Belgaum, 2011

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Pune: Rural India

From Pune 2011

Thank you to the readers of our blog for joining us on our journey through rural India!

Today we left the "Oxford of India" (Pune's nickname, based on the large number of universities and colleges found in the city) and travelled over seventy kilometers to a very small rural village.

We travelled with the director of education for the region and he was able to fill us in on some of the details of the children.  These children do go to school, public school, where classes are large and qualified teachers are few.

From Pune 2011

Many of the children who received bedkits today are considered "untouchable," the very bottom of the caste system. The caste system has been officially abolished but it continues to persist in these isolated communities.

When we spoke with the children we told them of the donor's wish for the child "to get a good night's sleep, so that they can be healthy and learn at school."  In consultation with the teachers, we also added that we hoped that the bedkit would help the kids go to school EVERY day.

Debbie Dryden
for Team Pune, 2011

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Belgaum: One thousand in one day

From Belgaum 2011

The day began unlike any other for the fact that we had very little travel time.  What we did arrive to was a sea of people in a small street!  The distribution was 1000 bedkits .. .that means 1000 kids and 1000 parents.  The bedkits here are so heavy that a child does need adult assistance to get them home with them.

The Belgaum Rotary team runs like a well-oiled machine.  They have a great system and do double checks on counts and kids along the way.  We at SCAW always give out the exact amount of kits on a distribution ... never 999 or 1001 ... our goal for today was 1000 and we succeeded.

From Belgaum 2011

One small issue that happened in the area before we arrived was that there was flash flooding in the part of the country that produces the blanket. The Belgaum Rotary team had to really pull some strings to get the blankets here on time.  We thank them for making that extra effort!

Sue Orr
for Team Belgaum, 2011

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Belgaum: Harugari and Ugar

From Belgaum 2011

Another successful day for the SCAW team and the organizing committee with two distributions in two new locations. Our first location of 150 bedkits was Harugari where we were warmly greeted by parents and children and the organizing committee.

During the distribution I had the opportunity to talk with some of the parents with the help of an interpreter. I was humbled by their stories, their hardships, and their dedication to provide for their children as best they can. Several of the women were the sole support for the family. They work in the fields or as homemakers in several homes and live in conditions we cannot imagine. Each parent I interviewed said the family all sleeps in one small room on the floor. The bedkit is so important to them for what it adds to their lives. Each item is valued. They were thankful their child was chosen to receive the bedkit but noted many other children were also in need.

From Belgaum 2011

A highlight of the day came at the end of the distribution when all the children, parents, and SCAW team had the opportunity to mingle and say "Good-bye." What a sight, watching children, parents, and their bedkits leave the site and head down the road: walking, on bikes, or piled into trucks.

Following this distribution, we headed to Ugar where we were treated to lunch before the distribution of another 150 bedkits. This distribution was effectively organized by the Ugar Women's Association.

In each distribution, I am struck by the dedication of the volunteers in all our distributions who put in long hours over several months planning the details of the distribution. They are dedicated in their efforts to improve the lives of the people in their community.

As always, smiles on the children continue to be the reward for a long journey and a long hot day!

Jeff Bamford
for Team Belgaum, 2011

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Pune: The team has arrived

We just wanted to let you know that the Pune team arrived yesterday in Pune.

Unlike yesterday, today we have access to a computer connection - yahoo!

We are doing some touring of the city, seeing Gandhi's National Memorial, and getting ready for tomorrow's distribution of 440 bedkits.

We are happy to be here!

Debbie Dryden
for Team Pune, 2011

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Belgaum: Our first Distribution

From Belgaum 2011

We were on the road by 7:00 a.m.

Seven tired volunteers boarded the bus for a three-hour trip to our first village at Athani where we distributed 350 bedkits. The cheers of the excited children were overwhelming.

After a few magic tricks and song-songs, we settled in and started our distribution. Out of 350 children, forty were orphans.

Everything went smoothly without any hiccups. When done, we packed up our gear and loaded the bus for another two-hour trip to another village called Nipani where we handed out 100 more bedkits. This was the first ever SCAW distribution held in Nipani.

In all, we had a successful and rewarding day.

Vic Wilbee
for Team Belgaum, 2011

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Belgaum: Waiting for the first distribution

From Belgaum 2011

As a first time SCAW volunteer today was awash with novelties. We visited several schools whose students had in the past received bedkits. The enthusiastic welcome in their broad smiles was truly awesome!

We were invited to several homes where the previously distributed bedkits were proudly displayed and maintained in a pristine fashion. (Pictured at right.) One of the mothers explained that her daughter wore her dress on "special occasions."

We also visited the homes of children who will receive bedkits tomorrow. Nothing I was told could have adequately prepared me for the experience. The huts they live in have no furniture. They sleep on a dirty concrete floor. Up to 10-12 persons share a room 10 by 12 feet.

They basically have nothing. One young boy kept asking me a question that his teacher interpreted for me. he said, " Take me with you to your country." I hope he gets a bedkit tomorrow.

From Belgaum 2011

Lastly we toured two factories where components of the bedkits are made. One is a family business out of their tiny home.(Pictured at left.) As a family they make 200 caps per day for SCAW.

The second is where the printing, and packaging of all the written material is undertaken -- again a family business run by three brothers. They work hard for the children and local cottage industry is supported -- yet another benefit of a SCAW donation.

I can't wait for my first distribution tomorrow.

Tom Todd
for Team Belgaum, 2011

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Belgaum: Preparing in Belgaum

The Belgaum Team has arrived safely in Belgaum and we were met by our Friends and Partners from the Rotary Club of Belgaum.

It was a nice ending to Valentines Day. Happy Valentines Day to everyone!

Tomorrow we will visit some recipient homes and factories where some bedkit items are produced. Then we will have our opening meeting with the Rotary Club of Belgaum - the core group who works with us throughout the distributions in the Karnataka area.

Stay tuned.

Duncan Macgregor
for Team Belgaum, 2011

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Belgaum: The team is in India

We received a brief message from Mumbai this morning.

"The Belgaum Team arrived safely in Mumbai last evening and will arrive in Belgaum on Monday evening. We are all well - just a little short of sleep."

"Happy Valentines Day!'

"Duncan Macgregor
for Team Belgaum, 2011"

"P.S. Will send our next message after we arrive in Belgaum."

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Belgaum: The team is off to India

From Belgaum 2011

Team Belgaum 2011 are Left to right, back row: Tom Todd, Vic Wilbee, Duncan Macgregor (Team Leader). Front row: Jeffrey Bamford, Lesley Todd, Sue Orr, Tamara Kaftalovich.

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Chennai: Ambattur

From Chennai 2011

Mission Accomplished

Today -- our last distribution -- was at Ambattur. It is unbelievable that the end has come. So many days ago we were all waiting with anticipation to begin our journey to distribute 6,000 bed kits to help the children of India. Now it has come to fruition, and what a journey it has been. We have touched many children's lives, but they, in turn, have touched all of our lives -- ten fold.

Ambattur school is for underprivledged children, and was founded by a Rotarian. In 1979 the school was made up of buildings with thatched roofs. Today it has permanent block buildings. There are plans for more expansion when the funds become available. There are approximately 560 boys and girls who attend the school. The school has grades up to grade 10. The government pays the teachers up to grade 9, and the Rotary Club of Ambattur pays for the grade 10 teachers.

Rotary handed out scholarships under Murray Dryden's name today to many students They receive 1,200 Rupees, which is approximately $30.00. The students will receive this money for the next five years to assist in their schooling.

The young boys and girls who received the bedkits were happy to be photographed by our most able Team Leader Doug. With a little coaxing from other team members they put on their best happy face. Due to the language barrier we really don't know what they were thinking about us when we tried various tactics to bring that smile to the forefront. I think it would be fun to find out.

Untill we meet again,
Poyitu varugiren (Goodbye)

Karen Morgan
for the Chennai 2011 Team

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p.s.: The concluding event of our distribution was the 25^th Anniversary Celebration of the Rotary Club of Ambattur and SCAW co-operating with friendship to deliver 77,150 bedkits since 1987. A wonderful social evening was held at the Marriott Courtyard Hotel in Chennai with approximately 80 persons in attendance. Leaders from both organizations were honoured with tributes and gifts. Enthusiasm and commitment for the future was assured.

Don Harris

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Pune: The team prepares

The Pune team met at 28 Pinehurst to get ready for their trip to Pune India.

They'll be leaving in one week to distribute 5,000 bedkits.

In the photo are Front row, Left to Right: Eileen Cockburn and Debbie Dryden (Team Leader). Back row: Christine Magee, Kevin Cullingworth, Sieg Will (Team Leader), Betty Cullingworth, and John Cockburn. Missing is the eighth team member, Riley Magee.

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Chennai: 707 Bedkits on February 7

From Chennai 2011

Our location today was at the Sarada Vidyalaya Girl's Higher Secondary School whose student body is composed of 1500 girls in this location and further away a boys' campus of 1500 students.

The girls choosen to assist in the distribution were the most intelligent, sweet, beautiful teenagers you could ever hope to meet. The bedkit recipients were positioned for photos, guided around and assisted with the heavy bedkits in a courteous, motherly way. India's future is promising with such excellent educated young woman.

The distribution of 707 bedkits went smoothly and after a bag lunch we were treated to singing and dancing presentations under the direction of the school's music teacher.

Everywhere we have travelled teachers, principals, parents, and Rotary club members praise Canadians for their generosity, compassion, and love for their children.

It was such a delightful day.

Don Harris
for the Chennai 2011 Team

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Chennai: Nellore

From Chennai 2011

We all arrived awake and cheerful and on time for breakfast considering our adventures of last evening and very early morning!

This would be the start of another great day for the SCAW team and 600 children. As we drove towards our destination of the D.K.Government Degree College For Women, we were surprised and pleased to see several large billboards advertising SCAW's 2011 distribution with photos from the 2010 distribution on it.

Upon entering the large open courtyard of the school, we were ceremoniously decorated around our necks with huge garlands of red roses that went to our knees. Then as we walked towards the outdoor stage where the children's photos would be taken, things became quite dramatic as suddenly we were showered with hundreds of flower petals by students of the college. Many official looking young men with cameras began taking our photos and we all got a taste of what celebrities experience.

We got a chance to visit some of the classrooms where children were waiting for the big day all dressed in their new clothes from the bedkits. The promised gift would be theirs today! We were greeted with lots of excitement, smiles, and laughter which we hoped would translate into smiling children once in front of the displayed bedkit and camera.

Soon the lines of children appeared and with the help of the students, Rotarians and their wives and teachers, we were able to have a very smooth process of photo-taking and darling needy children receive their bedkits.

Dante seemed to be quite a distraction to the students at this all female college but after some autographs and photos, he continued to focus on getting the little ones to smile for Doug to take the pictures.

Don at one point had about 20 TV station's microphones pressed towards him as he gave a detailed explanation about SCAW and how local needy children are being helped by kind and loving people in Canada and their local Rotarians.

It was a very good day had by all!

Roberta Harris
for the Chennai 2011 Team

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Chennai: Vellore

From Chennai 2011

On Thursday we arrived back in Chennai at 7:30 am. having slept on the train. After checking into our hotel we enjoyed a rest day with a little shopping, sight seeing, and organizing laundry.

By 6 am on Friday we were on the road to Vellore about three hours drive away. The city was already alive with buses, motor bikes, tuk-tuks, and bicycles and all with horns blowing.

Our distribution site in Vellore was Kumaran Mahal, a marriage hall. It was quite elaborately decorated with paintings and statues. Here the Hindu weddings and receptions take place.

After some discussion the site for the photographs was selected and set up. From that point on the distribution of 850 bedkits ran like clockwork. The children came from outlying schools in buses at scheduled times, which meant that the children were not waiting too long to get their photos taken. They were delightful and most were enjoying this new experience of meeting strange people and having their photos taken. Some of the children had shaved heads. We learned that it was a Hindu custom for the child's hair to remain uncut until the age of 5 yrs. It was then given back to the Gods and sold to support the temple.

Leaving Vellore by van we headed for Nellore. It was quite an adventure as our driver lost his way. We turned around in Chitoor where many, many people were gathering to go to the Tirubathi Temple. Our journey continued along busy country roads pitted with pot holes. Seven hours later we reached the city of Vellore tired but happy to reach our destination.

Eileen Rademacher
for the Chennai 2011 Team

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