School Bag and Sweater Distribution Drive
On 13th April 2022, Delhi Odia Nari Kalyan Samiti organised a heartfelt School Bag and Sweater Distribution Drive aimed at supporting children from economically weaker sections of society. The initiative was conceived as part of DONKS’ ongoing commitment to promote education and provide basic comfort to underprivileged children, especially those belonging to migrant and labour families residing in and around Delhi. 
The day began with members and volunteers assembling early at the chosen distribution venue. neatly packed school bags, sweaters, notebooks, pencils, erasers, sharpeners, and a few storybooks were arranged in orderly rows. Each set was thoughtfully prepared, keeping in mind the needs of primary and middle school children. The organising committee had previously conducted a field visit and survey to identify genuine beneficiaries children who were either irregular in school due to lack of resources or attending classes with torn bags and inadequate winter clothing.
The program started with a brief welcome address by the Chairperson of DONKS, who spoke about the importance of education as a tool for empowerment. She highlighted that while the organisation regularly celebrates festivals and cultural events to preserve Odia identity, it also considers social responsibility and community welfare as its core pillars. Members were reminded that a small gesture like providing a school bag or sweater can make a child feel valued, confident, and motivated to continue schooling.
As the children began to arrive—some shy, some excited—the atmosphere became lively and heart-warming. Volunteers interacted with them, asked their names, schools, and classes, and gently encouraged them to study well. Each child was given a new school bag and a warm sweater, along with basic stationery. For many of them, it was the first time they were receiving brand-new items instead of used or donated leftovers, and their smiles reflected pure joy.
Mothers and guardians accompanying the children expressed their gratitude to DONKS, sharing how difficult it was for them to afford school supplies, especially after the financial setbacks of the pandemic years. Several DONKS members took time to speak with the parents, emphasising the importance of regular school attendance and long-term education for breaking the cycle of poverty.
The Treasurer presented a brief overview of how the funds for the drive were collected—through voluntary contributions from members, well-wishers, and small family donations. Transparency in expenditure was assured, and members were informed that a complete record of beneficiaries and costs would be maintained for future reference and accountability.
Apart from distribution, the drive also had a motivational angle. One of the senior members addressed the children in simple language, urging them to dream big, study sincerely, respect their parents and teachers, and never give up despite hardships. This interaction transformed the event from a mere distribution program into a meaningful motivational session.
The School Bag and Sweater Distribution Drive on 13th April 2022 thus became a beautiful blend of compassion, organisation, and community bonding. It reinforced DONKS’ role not only as a cultural platform for Odia women in Delhi but also as a responsible social body dedicated to uplifting the less privileged. The event ended with a collective resolve to expand such educational support initiatives in the coming years, ensuring that more children step into school with dignity, warmth, and hope.
