WEF picks 'Arpan' as India's top 50 Covid-19 last mile responders

Arpan, a Mumbai-based NGO, has recently been chosen as one of India's top-50 Covid-19 Last Mile Responders' by the World Economic Forum (WEF) and Schwab Foundation for its contribution towards Covid Relief. Regional Hosts include Aavishkaar Group, Sankalp Forum and Catalyst 2030.

Other Mumbai-based organisations that feature in the list of India's Top-50 Covid-19 Last Mile Responders include Armman, Adhyayan Foundation, Antarang Foundation, Doctors For You and Back The Frontline Initiative by Dasra. Along with the World Economic Forum.

Early 2020 marked the onset of the unprecedented pandemic in India. At a time when millions of people and vulnerable communities were at risk of being left behind, and where existing support systems had been stretched, Arpan stepped up to respond to the emergency. Since the very start of the pandemic, this NGO began contributing towards essential grocery kits for individuals and families affected as a result of extended lock-downs, loss of jobs and mobility restrictions. Through these initiatives, Arpan distributed over 12,200 units grocery kits totalling to 184 tonnes that has reached over 61,000 beneficiaries residing in the most marginalised communities in Mumbai. As the second wave hit the city, 20 oxygen concentrators and other medical equipments were provided to Government and private hospitals.

"Arpan has been addressing the issue of Child Sexual Abuse for 15 years. However, the Covid-19 pandemic has pushed us to go beyond our core expertise and respond to what, we now know, as the largest humanitarian crisis of our time. I feel very proud that my team was swift to respond and has been able to provide some of the most marginalised families with groceries. I would also like to appreciate and thank all our partners on ground who helped with the distribution. It's commendable how our large team of counsellors and therapists expanded their capacities to address mental health problems, which I think has been the need of the hour," said Pooja Taparia, Founder and CEO of Arpan, speaking of their Covid Relief work.

She further added, "Among all the hardships and loss it's very humbling to know that our efforts are visible and appreciated. This honour from the World Economic Forum means a huge motivation for the team to continue with their efforts!"