As the proverb says ‘it takes a village to raise a child.’
It is something that the East Meets West Children’s Foundation clearly believes.
The foundation’s annual Diwali Dinner raised approximately $80,000 (Oct. 21) to help support children’s charities and programs around the world.
“It was a big success,” said founder Mohini Singh. “We were planning to sell 300 tickets, we sold about 350 and we had requests coming it a 5 p.m. and the doors opened at 5:30.”
Singh added the success of the gala speaks to the generosity of the Okanagan community.
“We had people come from up and down the valley and we actually had a couple of people fly in from Vancouver for the dinner.”
She said spending more fundraising dollars on local charities in the valley has also resonated with people.
“We want to help people in developing nations, but have to spread the wealth and take care of our own children who need our support,” Singh added.
East Meets West supports an indigenous health program in central India, children’s programming in Mumbai, live-saving surgeries for abandoned children in Calcutta, a teen pregnancy support program in Kenya, and a greenhouse and kitchen project in Peru.
Locally, support is provided to the Child Advocacy Centre and Starbright Children’s Development Centre.
While the Diwali Dinner is the foundation’s signature event, it also receives donations throughout the year.
Singh said East Meets West is an ‘organic movement’ and that its success is due to the hard work of dedicated individuals.
“I give full credit to our incredible board, this would not get done without their tireless efforts.”
The East Meets West Foundation board members are Mike Hill, Medha Prabhu, Pam Samaddar, Rahul Virk, Ryan Smith, Andy Virk, Biki Kochhar, Kam Boparai, Sharon Shepherd, Indy Brar, Tod Alstaad and Mohini Singh.
READ MORE: Okanagan Fest of Ale Society distributes $50k to local charities
READ MORE: Even ugly potatoes need love: B.C. event shares free food with 3,500 people