In Hubballi city, a compassionate couple, Kariyappa and Sunanda Shirahatti, have been silently working for the past 15 years to provide food and essential services to the hungry and destitute in the community. They undertake this noble task by feeding around 50 people daily, who depend on them for a proper meal.
Kariyappa Shirahatti comes from a well-to-do family, but he had always nurtured a desire to help the poor since childhood. Finally putting his plan into action, he initiated this service under an organization named after his father, Sri Neelappa Guddappa Shirahatti Seva Samsthe. The couple, residents of Anand Nagar in Old Hubballi, run a grocery store, and all their earnings are devoted to feeding the hungry.
Sunanda Shirahatti, despite being physically challenged, actively participates in the cause by taking orders for condiments and tirelessly cooking for those in need. They have never sought donations from others and always manage to have enough for themselves.
Recently, the couple decided to enhance their service by collecting excess food from events like marriage and birthday parties. They even acquired a vehicle for the purpose, enabling them to distribute food to even more hungry people across the city.
Kariyappa’s benevolent acts go beyond merely providing meals. He also carries a grooming kit to tend to the homeless people living on the streets, trimming their hair and nails, giving them a shave, and providing a wash.
The beneficiaries of their generosity express immense joy and gratitude for Kariyappa’s kindness. Many of them regard him as family and credit him for treating them with respect and dignity. His altruistic deeds have transformed lives, giving hope and a sense of belonging to those who have been neglected and marginalized.
Additionally, Kariyappa has taken up the role of educating people about the harmful effects of banned plastic. In his efforts to reduce plastic waste, he ensures that the food he distributes is packed in paper packets.
In a society where the needy often face indifference and neglect, the Shirahatti couple’s selfless service shines as a ray of hope, exemplifying the power of empathy and compassion to make a positive impact on the lives of others.
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