World Food Movement is a not-for-profit established to provide food assistance to students and communities in the United States of America. The inauguration was held on 28 September, 2023 at the Victoria Theatre, NJPAC in Newark, New Jersey. This initiative is inspired by The Akshaya Patra Foundation, the world's largest NGO-run school lunch program serving fresh, nutritious meals to millions of children every day.
World Food Movement will focus on addressing hunger and food insecurity among students and communities across the United States. It has commenced feeding in prominent areas like the Bay Area (California), New York and New Jersey. The organization will extend its reach to Boston, Washington, D.C, Seattle and other locations to benefit more communities. Earlier this year, World Food Movement served over 7000 meals with a goal of serving 100,000 meals annually by 2027.
The vision behind this movement began in 1966 when Srila Prabhupada arrived in America, and personally cooked and fed sumptuous meals to youth in New York. Those humble beginnings sowed the seeds of an inspiring legacy of compassion that the World Food Movement carries forward today.
World Food Movement is being led by Sri Madhu Pandit Dasa and Sri Chanchalapathi Dasa, who are also the founders of The Akshaya Patra Foundation in India. The team will leverage the learning and expertise gained from over 25 years of feeding experience in its projects and initiatives.
The launch was attended by Shri Binaya Srikanta Pradhan, Consul General of India in New York, Dr. Patricia Ramsey, President of Medgar Evers College and several dignitaries from across the US. Sri Chanchalapathi Dasa, Co-founder and Vice Chairman, World Food Movement, presided over the event.
The Honorable Mayor of Newark Ras J. Baraka, awarded a citation on the occasion, congratulating World Food Movement and said that the organization will be a major power to address food insecurity and empower students and communities.
Abby V, an internationally acclaimed singer celebrated for blending classical and contemporary music styles, extended his support through a vibrant performance on the occasion.
Persistent Foundation US, the US CSR arm of Persistent Systems, a global Digital Engineering and Enterprise Modernization leader, contributed to the initiative. Wealth Planning Advisory Group, a financial planning firm, also partnered in organizing the event.
Shri Binaya Srikanta Pradhan expressed his appreciation and said, "World Food Movement is a wonderful initiative, inspired by Srila Prabhupada's vision of a hunger-free world, that will benefit communities across the United States. For the last 18 months, I have watched its founders shape a movement of dignity. Just listening to a food-insecure Harlem beneficiary say 'This meal is my breakfast, lunch and dinner' was moving and shows me the impact this program is having. Helping young people in this way is what the Indian ethic of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, the world is one family, is all about. I have no doubt one million meals is a goal that will be met before 2030."
Shri Madhu Pandit Dasa said, "I am happy that World Food Movement has been officially launched today to work towards a common goal, alleviating hunger and enhancing food and nutrition security in America. We will dedicate all our energies and resources to serve the people in this country, targeting a life of dignity, good health and happiness. I invite everyone to join us in our mission to build a hunger-free world."
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Chanchalapathi Dasa said, "I extend my gratitude to everyone present at the inaugural event of World Food Movement. I wholeheartedly thank all our partners and well-wishers for making the event a success. We look forward to working with the government, college and university administrations, donors and all other stakeholders to serve the people of America. I am confident that with your support and encouragement, we can work towards fulfilling our vision that no one should go hungry."
From the Statehouse, Assemblyman Stanley of New Jersey's 18th District released a joint resolution commending the World Food Movement. He said, "The program is already transforming lives on campuses across the state. It unites diverse communities." He added that he wanted the next generation of students to participate in giving to those less fortunate, since learning to give back is as important as nourishing the body.
Thanking the World Food Movement, Dr. Patricia Ramsey, President of Medgar Evers College, said, "People think of college students as living in luxury, but the reality is many are struggling just to eat. I myself know what it is like to stand in an Ivy League dorm with only five dollars in my pocket. No person deserves to go hungry. Providing fresh food is part of ensuring dignity and academic success."
Sonali Deshpande, Chairperson of Persistent Foundation, said, "It is an honor for Persistent Foundation US to partner with World Food Movement in their mission to ensure access to nutritious meals for students and communities. This collaboration aligns with our commitment to supporting education, community development, and sustainability, underscoring the importance of creating a healthier, more resilient society."
A few beneficiaries of World Food Movement also attended the launch event. Fatima, a single mother from Medgar Evers, expressed her gratitude for the organization's initiative and said that fresh, nutritious meals will help her stay focused on her education.
Aaliyah, another beneficiary, described the challenges students face every day and expressed her gratitude to the World Food Movement for providing healthy, delicious meals. She said that this initiative lifts the burden off students and gives them the strength to achieve their goals.
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