Due to Covid-19, Nepal has been under a complete lock down since March 24, 2020. The government's response has been slow and inadequate, similar to that of the devastating earthquake in April 2015. 

The daily laborers were already struggling to feed their families. With the closure of businesses and even the informal sector, the impact has been devastating. The local communities in many regions have stepped up to feed hungry families. They need your help.

Some of you may know that we (Deepak and Puru) had to extend our family vacation in Nepal because our return flights to the US got canceled due to Covid-19. During this time, we came across many families who are going to bed hungry. On the positive note, we got to see how a local youth organization named Zero Mile Youth Club (ZMYC) in Janakpur, Nepal mobilized its volunteers to collect donations (rice, lentils, cash) from the community.



The youth organization procures ingredients, cooks, and distributes prepared lunch meals to at least 500 people every day.



"We have been preparing meals since April 15, 2020. And we have received no government help so far. We will continue to feed families as long as we have the funds to do so", said Shiv Shankar Mishra, the program manager of ZYMC. This meal program has been very popular in our community and has been a lifeline for many poor families.


Each meal consists of rice, lentils, and vegetables. On some special occasions, they change the menu to cook puri, kheer (rice pudding), and vegetable curry. Such occasions draw larger number of families.



Mishra said, "We also prepare food parcels for disabled people and deliver to their homes. Pregnant women get the first priority. We never turn anyone away. Each person can take sufficient food to feed their families. A few days ago, we had a special menu and 2000 people showed up for food." 

The women and children wait in designated spots, maintaining a safe distance from each other for their turn to collect food. Often, the weather is harsh and lines long. Several poor families depended on the remittance sent by a family member working abroad. Since banks have been closed, remittance flow has been affected.

They need your help because many women and children still depend on these meals daily. They will continue to receive temporary relief as long as the youth organization has sufficient funds. Please help them in whatever way you can.

Here is Deepak's E-Sewa ID (if you would like to use Esewa): 9844495127. Please use purpose as "Covid-19 Relief".

Bank Details:
A/C Name: Deepak Shah
A/C No: 0260050021257
Mega Bank, Janakpur Branch
Nepal