The Hindu reaches ₹1 cr worth relief material to flood hit

From school children to senior citizens, daily wage workers to managing directors of corporate giants, everyone in Chennai is joining forces to collect funds and crucial supplies for those affected by the floods.

Following The Hindu Group’s appeal for help, readers have contributed nearly ₹1 crore worth supplies of blankets, clothes, food, water, stoves, candles, torches, plastic mats and personal care products. Over 100 readers from across the city have also been volunteering to distribute these supplies immediately upon receipt.

Bharathi Tamizhan, Online Editor, The Hindu Tamil , says the team has so far provided over 21,000 people with supplies. “So far, more than 14,000 people have received food, and around 7,000 have been provided with blankets, water, bread and fruits,” he said.

Supplies are being collected at KPN centres in the city, a special collection centre adjacent to the Chepauk stadium (Pattabhiraman Gate) opposite to the State Guesthouse, and at the new Ispahani building adjacent to The Hindu Tamil office on Mount Road.

He appeals for volunteers from areas near flood-affected places, who can report on what supplies are needed so that the right products are sent to these localities. “We've received an overwhelming response from people who want to contribute in some way or the other,” said volunteer Gomathi Suresh, who is attending to the helpline number and keeping track of inventory received and dispatched.

“People have taken great efforts to donate these products, and we ensure that they reach those in need. Our volunteers assess these flood-hit areas to identify specific needs and channel supplies to them accordingly.”

While there is a steady contribution of products, the need remains very high, especially in remote areas, she said, adding that no donation is too small.

“Some people have been left with absolutely nothing after their homes have been deluged. Even a mosquito coil or candle can bring light into their lives while they wait at community halls for rehabilitation,” she observed.

Supplies needed: plastic sleeping mats, blankets, baby diapers, clothes, sanitary napkins, mosquito repellents/nets/coils, new clothes and nightgowns, torches with batteries separately, milk powder and bottled water

To contribute supplies: Drop off the supplies at the nearest KPN office, or at the collection centre adjacent to the Chepauk stadium (Pattabhiraman Gate) opposite to the State Guesthouse and at the new Ispahani building adjacent to The Hindu Tamil office on Mount Road

To volunteer: call Bharathi Tamizhan at 95515 11138 or Karthick Krishna at 74014 19575

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