"We extend heartfelt gratitude to everyone who stood by our side during the campaign to provide essential monthly groceries to 700 Adivasi households across the 13 tribal hamlets of Nagarhole Forest, H.D. Kote, Mysore.

The journey began when the Mysore Volunteer Forum, a collective of dedicated volunteers, recognized the urgency of the situation. In the midst of our personal struggles and losses due to the pandemic, we found ourselves in awe of the resilience displayed by the Adivasi communities in Nagarhole Forest. While we grappled with the effects of COVID-19, they were battling for their very survival.

Our connection with these tribal communities spanned a year, granting us an intimate understanding of their challenges – from the absence of basic amenities like electricity and transportation, to the lack of proper infrastructure and education. Despite these hardships, their lifestyle was a testament to minimalism, sustainability, and a profound connection with nature – a concept often glamorized in today's world.

The majority of the Adivasis journeyed to Kerala (Mananthavady, Waynad) or Coorg to earn their livelihoods through daily wage labor on coffee estates or farms. When lockdowns were strictly enforced in Karnataka and Kerala, their plight intensified. Deeply moved by an elderly tribal woman from Anemala Haadi sharing her pain, we initiated a crowdfunding campaign. In parallel, we reached out to Shwetha R Prasad (KFI), who has a history of supporting various causes and was actively engaged in COVID-19 relief efforts across Karnataka.

With Shwetha's invaluable support, our fundraising efforts gained momentum. Swiftly, funds were arranged, and many individuals joined forces to make a difference. This collaborative spirit enabled us to provide ration kits to all 700 Adivasi homes, impacting over 3,000 beneficiaries across the 13 tribal hamlets.

As we witnessed a growing number of groups and organizations extending their aid to the Adivasis, we recognized that the challenges they faced went beyond our immediate campaign. Protection from monsoons and improved infrastructure for public health centers emerged as pressing concerns. The endeavor continues, fueled by the knowledge that there is still much to be done.

Below is the list of hamlets to which we distributed ration kits:

1. Balle Hadi - 150

2. Goluru Haadi - 140

3. Machooru Haadi - 14

4. Sebinakolli Hosuru Haadi - 9

5. Anemala Haadi - 145

6. Manimoole Hadi - 50

7. Chikkabairanakoppe - 8

8. Mooleyooru Haadi - 28

9. Timmanahosali Haadi - 15

10. D.B. Kuppehaadi - 6

11. Bawalihaadi - 50

12. Seeguru Haadi (Udburu Haadi) - 65

13. Udburu Kere Haadi - 20

In this collaborative effort, we stand united under the banner of #WeAreInThisTogether.