The Akshaya Patra Foundation USA’s Tri-state chapter raised over US$2,000,000 during its 2022 Gratitude Gala held at Newark Airport Marriott on Nov.18.
The event, attended by over 400 business, nonprofit and philanthropic community leaders and professionals, featured a panel discussion by author and businesswoman Mitzi Perdue, prominent businessman and entrepreneur Ash Ashutosh, and Milind Pant, CEO of Amway Global.
The panel discussed the impact of education on various aspects of life and businesses, the need for thoughtful philanthropy and the role of Akshaya Patra as a facilitator.
Dr. Rachana Kulkarni, board member of Akshaya Patra USA and tri-state chapter chair reiterated the organization's mission, “No child in India should be deprived of education because of hunger”. She added that with the mid day meal program guarantees the kids food and education, so their families never have to choose.
Vikas Nangia Was the emcee entertained the guests along with Bollywood and Hollywood singer Aditya Rao and Broadway singer Suri Marrero, known for playing Young Elsa in Frozen. Rao’s Carnatic vocals and Suri’s singing left the audience completely mesmerized.
“We are very grateful to the Tri-State community for their incredible generosity. The funds raised will help Akshaya Patra continue its mission of unlimited food for education”, said Shridhar Venkat, CEO of Akshaya Patra India.
Akshaya Patra Foundation runs the world’s largest NGO school meal program and serves over 2 million school children in over 20,000 government schools from 65 kitchen facilities in 14 states and 2 union territories across India.
The USA branch of Akshaya Patra raises funds and awareness for the government school midday meal program in India. It has volunteer chapters in cities across the United States that holds fundraising and awareness events for the organization.
