Summary
The students, teachers, and management at St. Anthony’s College, Shillong, recently launched SAC-SEVA, an initiative aimed at stepping outside of our everyday affairs and reaching out, to a community that needs our assistance
SAC-SEVA began in May 2023, with every Tuesday of the month dedicated specially to visits at Civil Hospital
In the whirlwind of daily life and work, acts of charity can sometimes feel like unattainable aspirations. The never-ending demands of work take precedence, leaving us exhausted and reluctant to dedicate our free time to anything else. However, these are mere shelters of excuses and justifications that keep us away from helping those in need. Recognizing this, the students, teachers, and management at St. Anthony’s College, Shillong, recently launched SAC-SEVA, an initiative aimed at stepping outside of our everyday affairs and reaching out, in a small way, to a community that needs our assistance.
Driven by a strong spirit of generosity, the Anthonian Youth Club (AYC), the National Cadet Corps (NCC), and the Rovers and Rangers of the college joined forces for a common purpose – to give back. Led by Fr. Joby Joseph, Rector of the college, and Prof. Gracel Syiemiong, the clubs decided that a distribution of lunch packets to patients at Civil Hospital, Shillong, would be a great start to their journey of giving back.
SAC-SEVA began in May 2023, with every Tuesday of the month dedicated specially to visits at Civil Hospital. This food distribution drive involved the entire Anthonian fraternity. Through a series of posters, social media messages, and word of mouth, all students and faculty members were informed and inspired. Every Anthonian was encouraged to pack a nourishing meal serving one person which would be given to a patient at Civil Hospital – a sanctuary of healing for individuals from all walks of life.
Source: St. Anthony’s College, Shillong
When the first Tuesday arrived, two large carton boxes were filled to the brim with lunch boxes of various sizes, each brimming with generosity. Before lunchtime, student leaders and teachers took the contributions to Civil Hospital and distributed the lunch boxes in different wards of the hospital. Amidst the bustling atmosphere of the place, the students and teachers went from ward to ward, meeting patients young and old, and spreading their compassion in a lunch box. Witnessing the joy in every face was truly gratifying. In the following weeks, the initiative gained momentum, as hundreds of food packets arrived, providing a tremendous boost of encouragement.
The success of SAC-SEVA, now in full swing, would not have been possible without the unwavering support of the late Dr. Andreas Dkhar. It was his belief and trust in St. Anthony’s College that made the SAC-SEVA initiative a reality. Dr. Andreas Dkhar's memory serves as a guiding light, reminding us of the profound impact we can have on the lives of others.
The SAC-SEVA initiative not only addressed physical nourishment but a sense of camaraderie and understanding was also fostered. The students interacted with the patients, listening to their stories, and providing momentary respite from their worries. These connections were forged through empathy and magnanimity, reminding everyone involved that there is always time for kindness.
Last updated on 12 Jun 2023
