Thanks to the dedicated efforts of our members and volunteers from Kolkata, Malda, Cooch Behar, Purba Chandipur, Bansdroni, and many kind supporters, we successfully carried out relief work on short notice. Starting from March 28, 2020, we distributed relief aid to unemployed individuals, migrant workers, small-scale businessmen, beggars, neglected elderly persons, people with disabilities, and those living on the streets in five districts of West Bengal. Bansdroni Hridhi has given food and essential items to a total of 6837 people in Kolkata, North 24 Parganas, South 24 Parganas, Malda, and Cooch Behar. We extend our gratitude to our members and volunteers from the Purba Chandipur unit, as well as all our supporters and the “Koshish Covid 19” initiative during the COVID-19 lockdown.

1. Kolkata COVID Lockdown Relief Distribution:

• From 28th March 2020 to 8th June 2020, spanning 73 days, Bansdroni Hridhi distributed a total of 1818 lunch packets to vulnerable groups in Jadavpur Station, Baghajatin, and Ramgarh areas. These included the homeless, differently-abled individuals, mentally and physically disabled persons, and uncared-for elderly individuals, ensuring they received essential meals during the lockdown period.
• Throughout the COVID lockdown from 26th April 2020, we supported Mr. Subrata Ghosh, an Uber driver residing in South 24 Parganas, and his family of six members. We provided rice, dal, potatoes, oil, soyabean, salt, soap, and baby food for their 11-month-old daughter.
• Mintu Haroa, a worker in a hosiery company in South Kolkata, lost his job due to the pandemic. From 26th April 2020, Bansdroni Hridhi supported his family of eleven members with essential food items and supplies.
• We extended similar support to Mr. Santu Das, a computer mechanic, and his family, as well as Ms. Roy Chowdhury, whose only son is currently unemployed. We provided them with rice, dal, vegetables, oil, soyabean, salt, soap, and necessary medicines during the lockdown period.
• On 2nd May 2020, Bansdroni Hridhi rescued a Swamiji (holy man) and his disciple from Bharat Sevasram Sangha at Jadavpur Station. With the help of government authorities, local police, GRPF, and Mitali Mohila Samiti member, we arranged accommodation for them at a night shelter in Kasba for their safety and well-being during the lockdown.
• In August 2020, we arranged Rs. 15,000 for 18-year-old Ms. Poulomi Manna, who is suffering from Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. This financial support aimed to assist her in accessing necessary medical treatment and care.

2. North 24 Parganas COVID Lockdown Relief Distribution: Amid the COVID-19 lockdown, Bansdroni Hridhi provided crucial support to Miss. Subhasree Saha, a teenage orphan girl residing in Barasat, North 24 Parganas. On 2nd May 2020, we extended assistance by providing essential items including rice, dal, potatoes, onions, oil, soyabean, salt, soap, and sanitary napkins to this orphan girl. Our aim was to ensure that Miss. Subhasree Saha had access to basic necessities and support during this challenging period.
3. Malda COVID Lockdown Relief Distribution:Amid the economic hardships caused by the COVID-19 lockdown, Bansdroni Hridhi took proactive steps to assist individuals and families in need across various areas of Malda district:

• On 22nd April 2020, we distributed 50 bags of ration to residents of Old Hatkhola, Kaligram, Madhyapara, Barogachia, Amlapara, Paharpur, Nayatola, Umarpur, Khelenpur, Shihipur, DakshinSahor, Boirigachi, Haripara, Dhania Potti, Malcha under Chanchal–I block. These recipients included rickshaw pullers, small shopkeepers, factory workers, daily labourers, and maid servants who had lost their livelihoods due to the lockdown.
• On 27th and 28th April 2020, we extended support by distributing 50 bags of ration at Kanua, Muchipara, Kalahandi, Joy Bangla, Khulial, Adhibashipara of Chanchal–I block. The beneficiaries primarily consisted of migrated labourers, maid servants, beggars, small shop owners, and members of tribal communities.
• On 9th and 10th May 2020, Bansdroni Hridhi distributed 50 ration bags to residents of Sihipur, Alsiyatola, Panpara, Adibashi Para under Chanchol–I block. The recipients included cobblers, daily labourers, hawkers, maid servants, shopkeepers, and fishermen, all of whom were struggling due to the loss of income during the lockdown.

4. Cooch Behar COVID Lockdown Relief Distribution: On 16th May 2020, Bansdroni Hridhi carried out a vital relief distribution initiative in Shitalkuchi block of Cooch Behar district. We distributed 30 bags of ration supplies to homeless elderly individuals, families of migrated labourers, and a blind person. The provision of essential ration supplies was aimed at assisting those who were severely affected by the COVID-19 lockdown, including vulnerable elderly individuals, families facing economic challenges due to migration, and persons with disabilities such as blindness.
5. South 24 Parganas COVID Lockdown Relief Distribution:

• On 3rd May 2020, Bansdroni Hridhi distributed 25 ration bags at Purba Chandipur, Halisahor, Sardarpara, Kacharipara, Shilpi Palli, Bhulo Para under Bapuji Gram Panchayat & Hardwood Point Coastal Police Station of Kakdwip block. The relief was provided to jobless daily labourers, shopkeepers, fishermen, and their families.
• On 6th May 2020, 25 ration bags were distributed at Purba Chandipur, Halisahor, Sardarpara, Kacharipara, Shilpi Palli, Bhulo Para, Khamarupara under Bapuji Gram Panchayat & Hardwood Point Coastal Police Station of Kakdwip block. The distribution targeted jobless daily labourers, small shopkeepers, fishermen, theatre actors, small-time singers, and their respective families.
• On 10th May 2020, Bansdroni Hridhi distributed 32 ration bags at Ghatapara, Kacharipara, Chhoto Boidyapur, School Para under Bapuji Gram Panchayat & Hardwood Point Coastal Police Station of Kakdwip block. The relief was provided to jobless daily labourers, small shopkeepers, fishermen, tailors, maid servants, and volunteers along with their families.
• On 15th May 2020, 20 ration bags were handed out at Ganeshpur Tritio Gheri near Kakdwip station, an area predominantly dependent on fishing and daily labour for livelihood.
• On 17th May 2020, Bansdroni Hridhi distributed 26 bags of ration at Boidyapur Cristhan Para, Kamarchawak, Ramnagar, Madanmohonpur under Baburmall GramPanchayat & Kulpi Police Station. The relief was provided to elderly parents of migrated labourers, physically challenged individuals, and elderly widows.

During these relief distributions, Bansdroni Hridhi provided essential items such as rice, masoor dal, potatoes, salt, soyabean, soap, and mustard oil to families in need. Each family received relief supplies to sustain them for a minimum of 4 days, considering an estimated minimum of 4 members per family.

6. Amphan Relief of Bansdroni Hridhi:

• We assisted the people of South Bengal affected by the powerful cyclone Amphan. Bansdroni Hridhi, with support from our friends and well-wishers, initiated relief efforts in Kakdwip and Kulpi Block of South 24 Parganas on May 20, 2020. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of our members and volunteers from Purba Chandipur and the entire Bansdroni Hridhi community, along with several well-wishers, we were able to provide relief swiftly.
• We arranged four shelters at the homes of our dedicated volunteers, along with establishing a community kitchen. This initiative aimed to provide safe accommodations and meals for the affected villagers during the cyclone period. Bansdroni Hridhi arranged and distributed food for 24 families (approximately 96 people) for three days, from 20th May 2020 to 22nd May 2020. This equated to providing support for a total of 288 individuals from Purba Chandipur village under Bapuji Gram Panchayat & Hardwood Point Coastal Police Station in Kakdwip block of South 24 Parganas.
• Ration Bags Distribution: On 21st May 2020, Bansdroni Hridhi distributed ration bags among 50 underprivileged families residing in Baro Halisahor, Niogipara, Kandarpara, Schoolpara, and roadside dwellers under Bapuji Gram Panchayat & Hardwood Point Coastal Police Station in Kakdwip block of South 24 Parganas. These families, situated along the banks of the Kalnagini river, primarily consisted of migrated labourers and young members seeking livelihood opportunities.
• Tarpaulin Sheets Distribution (23rd May 2020): Distributed 44 tarpaulin sheets among: a) 22 fishermen families living in slum areas of Ganeshpur Tritio Gheri under Kakdwip block. These families’ houses, constructed with mud, bamboo, and plastic, were completely destroyed by Cyclone Amphan, forcing them to seek shelter near Kakdwip railway station. b) 22 families in Halisahor, Bhulopara & Shilpipally under Bapuji Gram Panchayat & Hardwood Point Coastal Police Station. The distribution of tarpaulin sheets aimed to provide immediate shelter and protection against the elements.
• Additional Tarpaulin Sheets Distribution (28th May 2020): On 28th May 2020, Bansdroni Hridhi continued its relief efforts by distributing 22 additional tarpaulin sheets among elderly and uncared-for individuals belonging to families of migrated labourers in Mirpara, Jelepara, and Chhoto Halisahor under Bapuji Gram Panchayat & Hardwood Point Coastal Police Station. This initiative addressed the urgent need for shelter and protection among vulnerable community members.
• Ration Supplies Distribution (29th May 2020): On 29th May 2020, Bansdroni Hridhi distributed a total of 50 bags of ration supplies to:

1. 20 fishermen families residing in slum areas of Ganeshpur Tritio Gheri under Kakdwip block. These families, whose houses were predominantly made of mud, bamboo, and plastic, were severely affected by Cyclone Amphan, forcing them to seek refuge near Kakdwip railway station.
2. 30 families of Khacharipara, Khamarupara, including 10 dedicated volunteers of Bansdroni Hridhi under Bapuji Gram Panchayat & Hardwood Point Coastal Police Station. This distribution aimed to provide essential support to families and volunteers affected by the cyclone.

• Ration Supplies and Tarpaulin Sheets Distribution (31st May 2020): On 31st May 2020, Bansdroni Hridhi distributed 50 bags of ration supplies and 30 tarpaulin sheets in 16 No. Digambori Bazar, Taranagar, Samantapara, Fuleshwari Geri, Chhoyer Gheri under Purna Chandrapur Gram Panchayat & Dhola Police Station of Pathor Pratima block. These areas, known for activities like boat repairing, fishery, net stitching, and poultry farming, suffered severe damage from Cyclone Amphan due to their proximity to the coastal area of Eastern Sundarbans.
• Further Relief Distribution (3rd June 2020): Relief efforts continued on 3rd June 2020 at Ramkrishnar Chawak & Purba Guriyar Chawak under Bapuji Gram Panchayat & Hardwood Point Coastal Police Station in Kakdwip block. Bansdroni Hridhi distributed 25 bags of ration supplies and 23 tarpaulin sheets among elderly people from migrated labour families, homeless individuals, beggars, Amphan-affected farmers, and fishermen of these areas.
• Additional Relief Distribution (6th June 2020): On 6th June 2020, Bansdroni Hridhi provided 30 bags of ration supplies and 14 tarpaulin sheets to the Amphan-affected residents of Mirpara under Bapuji Gram Panchayat & Hardwood Point Coastal Police Station in Kakdwip block. The majority of Mirpara residents work as tailors in Domjur, Howrah.
• Distribution at Purba Chandipur Village (8th June 2020): On 8th June 2020, Bansdroni Hridhi distributed 10 bags of ration supplies among our dedicated volunteers in Purba Chandipur village under Bapuji Gram Panchayat & Hardwood Point Coastal Police Station in Kakdwip block. The relief efforts extended to Dighirpar under Keoratala Gram Panchayat & Kulpi Police Station in Kulpi block on 9th June 2020. A total of 30 bags of ration supplies and 12 tarpaulin sheets were distributed among cyclone-affected poor villagers, predominantly dependent on fishery for their livelihood. The cyclone’s impact contaminated their fisheries with salty water, leading to severe losses.
• Continued Relief Distribution (10th June 2020 – 2nd July 2020): From 10th June 2020 to 2nd July 2020, Bansdroni Hridhi distributed 40 bags of ration supplies and 8 tarpaulin sheets among underprivileged individuals in nearby villages, beggars, differently-abled people, and dedicated volunteers of Bansdroni Hridhi in Kakdwip block.
• Collaborative Efforts with “Webel” (13th June 2020 and 23rd June 2020): On 13th June 2020, 85 bags of ration supplies and 85 tarpaulin sheets were distributed among poor and underprivileged villagers of Purba Chandipur and its adjacent 20 villages under Bapuji Gram Panchayat & Hardwood Point Coastal Police Station in Kakdwip block. On 23rd June 2020, 100 bags of ration supplies and 50 tarpaulin sheets were distributed among poor and underprivileged villagers of Hare Krishnapur village under Gram Gopalnagar Gram Panchayat in Pathor Pratima block.
• Collaborative Distribution with “Pukar Charitable Trust” (4th July 2020): On 4th July 2020, Bansdroni Hridhi distributed 60 bags of ration supplies, along with sarees and Hawai slippers, among underprivileged and uncared-for female residents of Purba Chandipur and its adjacent 20 villages under Bapuji & Baburmall Gram Panchayat & Hardwood Point Coastal Police Station in Kakdwip block.

In response to the needs of the affected communities, we distributed essential supplies such as rice, lentils, potatoes, salt, soybeans, soap, and mustard oil in the aftermath of Cyclone Amphan. Recognizing an average of 4 members per family, we provided relief packages to these families over a span of 4 days to address their immediate requirements. Bansdroni Hridhi provided food and essential items to 10,976 people and distributed tarpaulins to 288 families in South 24 Parganas. We are thankful to our members, supporters including “Koshish”, “Webel”, and “Pukar Charitable Trust”, as well as the members and volunteers of the Purba Chandipur unit for their invaluable support during the relief work.

7. Nutritional Support Scheme for Orphan Immunocompromised Children: The ‘Nutritional Support’ scheme initiated by Bansdroni Hridhi since 1st April 2019 has expanded to cater to 7 orphan immunocompromised children from 6 different districts of West Bengal. This ongoing project provides crucial monthly nutritional assistance to vulnerable children, ensuring their health and well-being.
8. Distribution of Masks and Sanitizers in Kalighat and Rashbehari: Bansdroni Hridhi distributed masks and sanitizers among street children and residents of slums in Kalighat and Rashbehari areas of South Kolkata, contributing to COVID-19 preventive measures and community health.
9. Community Outreach in Karunamoyee Slum, Salt Lake: On 12th & 16th October 2020, Bansdroni Hridhi extended support to 49 street children and 45 families in the Karunamoyee slum of Salt Lake. The organization distributed new dresses, lunch (including fried rice, chicken kosha, and sweets), mosquito nets, free sanitizers, and masks, prioritizing the well-being of vulnerable individuals.
10. Support for Roadway Children at Howrah Station: On 17th October 2020, Bansdroni Hridhi distributed new dresses, masks, and sanitizers among 49 roadway children in the Howrah station area. Additionally, the organization arranged a nutritious lunch comprising rice, dal, aloo vaji, mutton, chatni, and rasgulla for these children, ensuring their basic needs are met.
11. Ration Kit Distribution in Dighirpar Village, South 24 Parganas: Bansdroni Hridhi provided essential ration kits, including rice, dal, haldi, mustard oil, salt, washing powder, bath soap, and shampoo, to 50 underprivileged families residing in Dighirpar (Majherpara) village under the Kulpi block of South 24 Parganas district, alleviating food insecurity during challenging times.
12. Empowering Tribal Children in ‘KATLAMARI’ Village, Malda: On 23rd October 2020, Bansdroni Hridhi distributed new dresses among 66 tribal children at ‘KATLAMARI’ village under Chanchal – II block of Malda district. Additionally, the organization organized a nutritious lunch featuring rice, dal, aloo vaji, vegetable curry, chicken, chatni, doi, and misti for the tribal children and their mothers, fostering community well-being and support.
13. Supporting Elderly Residents of Old Age Homes:Bansdroni Hridhi arranged special lunches for elderly residents of old age homes, ensuring they receive nutritious meals and care:
14. On 24th October 2020, lunch comprising rice, dal, beguni, paneer kofta, chatni, doi, and misti was provided for 25 residents of an old age home in Baguiati.
15. Similarly, on the same day, Bansdroni Hridhi arranged lunch with rice, dal, aloo vaji, mixed vegetables, chicken, chatni, and misti for 40 residents of an old age home in Kashba, South Kolkata.
16. Combatting Dengue and Malaria:Bansdroni Hridhi took proactive measures to prevent and control diseases like Dengue and Malaria by distributing essential resources:
17. 60 mosquito nets were distributed.
18. 50 kg of bleaching powder was spread across various locations in Purba Chandipur village, safeguarding the community against vector-borne illnesses.
19. Heart Operation Support for Arpan Dutta: On 20th November 2020, Bansdroni Hridhi demonstrated compassion by providing a significant financial contribution. A cheque amounting to Rs. 15,000.00 was handed over to support the heart operation of 7-month-old Arpan Dutta from South 24 Parganas, ensuring access to life-saving medical care.
20. Old Age Home Lunch at Uchhepota, Sonarpur: BansdroniHridhi extended its support further by organizing a lavish lunch on 14th November 2020 for 40 elderly residents of an old age home in Uchhepota, Sonarpur. The meal included rice, dal, aloo vaji, foolkopi, chicken, chatni, doi, misti, and cold drinks, enhancing the well-being of the elderly.
21. Empowering Tribal Children and Elderly Women in Katlamari Village, Malda: On 22nd November 2020, Bansdroni Hridhi distributed essential items and organized a special lunch for the tribal community of Katlamari village:
22. Distributed woollen garments, exercise books, pencils, erasers, etc., among 53 tribal children and 5 uncared-for elderly women.
23. Arranged a hearty lunch for 100 tribal children and elderly individuals, fostering community bonding and support in Khempur Gram Panchayat of Chachal – II block, Malda district.
24. Granting Last Wishes through Medical Support: Bansdroni Hridhi fulfilled the final wishes of Mrs. Anjali Devi (name changed) by disbursing essential medicines commonly used for cancer patients under the supervision of Dr. Suranjan Maitra on 15th January 2021, ensuring compassionate end-of-life care.
25. Community Outreach in Pukuria Village, South 24 Parganas:On 14th February 2021, Bansdroni Hridhi organized a thoughtful event in Pukuria village, South 24 Parganas district:
26. Provided lunch to 185 children and elderly individuals, fostering a sense of camaraderie and joy within the community.
27. Distributed 17 blankets to elderly residents, offering warmth and comfort during the winter months.
28. Celebrating Joy and Compassion at Joy Bangla Village, Malda: Bansdroni Hridhi continued its celebration of compassion by marking a special occasion. On 21st March 2021, Bansdroni Hridhi hosted a lunch for 103 children and elderly persons at Joy Bangla village, Alihonda Gram Panchayat, Malda district, commemorating a joyful milestone and spreading happiness.