Bishop of Daltonganj Bishop Theodore Mascarenhas joined the ‘Street Providence’ stall to serve food to the poor on Friday morning.
THE GOAN NETWORK
PANAJI
Hundreds of cleaning staff, sanitary workers, and Class IV employees have been at work to maintain hygiene, sanitation and other facilities during the 45-day Exposition at Old Goa.
Mindful that many poor and needy individuals could begin their day without a meal which could impact their health and ability to function, the NGO ‘Street Providence’ had initiated a novel project at Old Goa to provide them free meals thereby lightening their financial burden by reducing their need to carry or purchase lunch and breakfast.
THE INITIATIVE
The NGO ‘Street Providence’ received a free stall from the State government at the Bahkia parking area in Old Goa, to provide free meals to those in need during the entire period of the Exposition of the Sacred Relics of St Francis Xavier at Old Goa.
When contacted, Donald Fernandes from ‘Street Providence’ stated that the food stall operated from November 22, 2024 to January 3, 2025, serving meals with the support of dedicated volunteers and generous donors.
“From November 22 to January 3, we served breakfast daily, offering Shira, Poha, or Upma on alternate days, accompanied by a cup of hot tea, from 8 am to 9 am to approximately 100 people,” said Fernandes.
Responding to requests, we began serving a midday meal from December 2 to January 3, comprising Wada pav or Samosa with bread to 200 needy individuals between 1 pm and 2 pm.
On Friday, Bishop of Daltonganj Bishop Theodore Mascarenhas along with retired IPS officer Bosco George joined the ‘Street Providence’ stall to serve food to the poor from 8 am to 9 am.
THE SUPPORT
He said the stall was managed by their volunteers, Prof. Pai from Bambolim, Anita and Mario of Udant NGO, Shawn and his team from Taleigao.
“Their tireless and efficient efforts ensured smooth operations throughout the event,” acknowledged Fernandes.
“One of our supporters, Armando Gonsalves, generously donated 200 loaves of bread daily for the entire month of December 2024, helping us sustain this noble cause. We are also grateful to Navtara group of restaurants for providing meals at a very considerable rate and on time throughout the entire period.”
“Our heartfelt thanks to all benefactors, volunteers, and the State government for making this initiative a success.”
THE RESPONSE
Fernandes said the food stall received an overwhelming response, especially from cleaning staff, sanitary workers, and Class IV employees, who expressed their gratitude.
“This service lightened their financial burden by reducing the need to carry or purchase lunch and breakfast. Many poor and needy individuals begin their day without a meal, which impacts their health and ability to function. Providing a nutritious breakfast gives them the energy to face the day,” explained Fernandes.
“Offering a warm, welcoming environment made them feel respected, not judged or pitied, fostering a sense of human dignity.”
“Seeing the gratitude in the eyes of those we served is deeply rewarding and knowing that we have made a positive difference in their life, even if for a single morning, provides immense personal fulfilment.”
Fernandes said the initiative had inspired others to contribute, either by volunteering, donating, or replicating such programmes, thus multiplying the impact.
“For all of us at Street Providence Trust, engaging in this meaningful work that uplifts others instills in us a sense of purpose. Interacting with those who face daily challenges yet carry on with hope can be humbling and inspiring. A simple meal can remind someone in dire circumstances that they are not alone and that society cares about them.”
This initiative is a testament to the power of small acts of kindness, proving that a simple breakfast can go beyond satisfying hunger”it can nourish the soul, foster hope, and build a better society,” he added.
