MATUNGA, NOVEMBER 17, 2010: Smile even if it is toothless, it adds great value to your face regardless of your gender, age and looks and even status. It brightens up the faces not only of those who smile, but even of those who look at it. We at Shelter Don Bosco this year celebrated the Annual Mela on November 15, 2010. We tried our best to put the smile back on the faces of around two thousand five hundred underprivileged children, in the Quadrangle of Don Bosco High School Matunga.
The programme started with a prayer song. The inauguration ceremony began with the children releasing the balloons in the presence of the Chief Guest Mr Niranjan Negi (Founder of ABHI Foundation) and Fr. Michael Fernandes (Provincial Superior). Fr. Xavier Devdas said the initial prayer.
Along with us there were various NGOs and Companies like, Kotak, Yuva Parrivartan, Reliance Retail, Dream Foundation, Paws, Go-Gola and many others who supported us whole heartedly to fulfil our dream to bring a smile on the innocent faces. Dimdima Magazines and Toy Banks provided toys and story books to these children for the day.
There were around ten games stalls put up by the students of Don Bosco School Matunga. A team of doctors from Kem Hospital along with Dr Shanbhaug were there with their full support working hand in hand to create awareness of various diseases and their repercussions. We also had Care and Support team who are handling all types of medical checks and care. Different types of drawing competitions were held for these street children so they could also enjoy and express their creativity. Thirty two NGOs from all over Mumbai participitated. They took part in the cultural activities and dances. There were skits and plays by volunteers groups.
There was a grand finale to this mega event by the nature itself. As the Director proposed a vote of thanks along with the whole staff and boys on the stage a strong gust of wind brought down the back drop curtain on their heads amidst peals of thunder and lightning with showers of blessings. But it has been possible because of the support and networking of the above mentioned NGO'S, Companies and persons.