Nicoles' India!!

My name is Nicole. I’m from Boise, Idaho in the U.S.A. I’m an exchange student studying sociology and political science at Christ College, but my major in the U.S. is biology. I’ve been in Bangalore for about a month and a half now, and I will be staying here until the end of April. I had been anxious to see more of the city and aspects of Indian life outside of the college and the foreigner hang-outs (i.e. M-G Road, Commercial Street, Forum, etc.). So, last Sunday I experienced the Breakfast 4 You program for the first time. I thought it would be a great opportunity to get out in the community and also to see for myself topics that had been discussed in my sociology class. Initially walking into the slum I felt overwhelmed. The living conditions and lack of basic necessities like clean water, food, and clothing struck me hard. However, when the kids and women crowded around expectantly waiting for the food, I felt like I was a part of something important. Out of all the ways to provide assistance, giving something as essential as food may seem simplistic, but it makes a huge difference to the people you’re feeding. Going out and taking action is so much more rewarding than just donating money. I liked knowing I had helped to fill a hungry child’s stomach, even if I had only played a small part. I look forward to participating in the program on as many Sundays as I can!