The India Cultural Center (ICC) Kids launched a mission to provide relief supplies to area healthcare workers during the COVID-19 crisis. Under the name “India Cultural Center Kids Love You,” the ICC kids, ranging in ages 5 to 13, set up a GoFundMe page that raised $1,900. The fund provided drinks and energy snacks for local healthcare providers at both Greenwich and Stamford Hospitals and Greenwich Emergency Medical Services (GEMS).
As medical professionals and first responders continue to work tirelessly providing round the clock care to keep our communities safe, putting their own lives at stake, the kids of ICC knew there was more they could do themselves. “We were thrilled when we heard from a group of ICC Kids who wanted to give back to local doctors and nurses,” said Margie French, Executive Director, ICC. “The fund was entirely driven off of their desire to do more and is proof that kids do great things.”
In between virtual classes and homework, the kids carved out time from their day to set up home production lines to assemble care packages. In addition to water and an energy snack, each bag contained a “love note”” – a personal thank you note handwritten by the ICC kids to boost healthcare workers morale as well as their energy. The handwritten messages with statements “You are a hero. Thanks for helping the COVID-19 patients,” are sure to warm hearts. “We are so fortunate to have brave healthcare workers putting themselves and their families at risk to take care of those suffering from the Pandemic,” stated Aran Basu 7th grader. “This is the least we can do to support our community at this time.”
Since April 9, over 500 bags and notes have been delivered to Stamford Hospital, Greenwich Hospital, and GEMS. Another 500 are in production to be delivered.
The ICC Kids are thankful to all those who supported the campaign and contributed to their goal.
India Cultural Center is a non-profit organization that celebrates the arts and culture of India. Its mission is to foster inclusion by educating and engaging the community in Indian culture. Programs are targeted towards both the Indian American diaspora and the community at large.
