[Originally Posted by Parth Dave]


Beautiful things manifest when 7 students from different backgrounds come together to simply share what we have with our community. We called it the 'Free Store'. It was around 4 in the evening and we began by setting up tables and chairs, unpacking materials, tying up banners and starting afresh. We were nervous and anxious but excited.

Our banner read, ‘We collect unwanted, reusable stuff and give it away to people who need them’. Some of us took the courageous step of talking to groups of parents, students and customers in the shopping complex.
Slowly, the curiosity built up. Within an hour or so, the curiosity converted into pickups. Children’s books go like hot cakes. Academic textbooks rediscovered their shine as happy students chose them. Adults found their joy in unused greeting cards. Stationery items were gifted. 
 A doctor visited our stall and offered free homoeopathic treatment for various common ailments at her clinic in the shopping complex. A school Principal offered a stockpile of donations sourced from her school’s Lost and Found counter, that comprise of, sweaters, shoes, water bottles, umbrellas, a bucket and lots of love. An elderly Uncle shared puzzles and sang for our Team. He entertained us with his funny capers and skills in palmistry. It seemed that he got back his playful self that wanted to come out since a long time. 2 boys from a nearby slum dwelling happen to visit us out of curiosity. They initially felt reluctant to simply pick up stuff for free, but it’s a beautiful sight when they realize it’s a safe space. They come back with another friend and not only collected board games, toys and stationery items for themselves, but also choose a nice kitchen set for their sisters.
 
One of our team members, Sejal, expresses her joy over the event:

"It was lovely being a part of something unique. Helping people get what they want and experiencing the smiles of gratitude. It was a sunny day, but it wasn't the heat but the smiles that made us feel warm. Had a nice experience of meeting and understanding different and new people. Would love to help out again if possible. Thank you for having me even if I am not remotely linked to the stream." 
 
In three and a half hours we saw donors and beneficiaries come together. There were families, orphanages, teachers, students, security guards, maids, homemakers and happy kids! The resources distributed ranged from books, clothing, gifts, water bottles, shoes, toiletries, stationary items, CDs, games and lots of toys! In the end, we were just taken away by how simple the idea was, and how so many stories manifested. It truly seemed like a new reality for the world around us :)   

 

Posted by Parth Dave on Feb 1, 2014 | permalink