True development and lasting change can only be brought about through the combined efforts of society at large, and, in particular, through the joint co-operation of organizations that work together towards a common goal. In this regard, Corporate Social Responsibility plays a key role in the sector, providing resources that are often crucial to a non-profit’s work.

In the past Akshaya Patra has greatly benefitted from the support of such organizations, making important strides with their backing and assistance to develop a culture that brings together two crucial aspects of true social development: people in need with those who are able to help them in that time of need.

On October 5^th, The Applied Materials Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Applied Materials Inc. which aims to address specific community needs by supporting initiatives in Education, Civic Development and Environment in India, announced the extension of its partnership with Akshaya Patra. It sponsored meals for over 1,000 students and also donated 3 state-of-the-art meal distribution vehicles.

On the occasion Dr Madhusudan V. Atre, President and Managing Director of Applied Materials India said “The Applied Materials Foundation is committed to investing in meaningful social causes in the communities we operate. The food van initiative is our humble way of supporting Akshaya Patra in their endeavor and gives us the opportunity to ensure that the children receive nutritious meal on time which is critical for their growth and educational progress.”

Sri Chanchalapathi Dasa, Vice Chairman of Akshaya Patra Foundation, spoke during the inaugural event. “We are indeed honored to have received continued and sustained support from Applied Materials. Their support is truly inspiring and has made a difference to the lives of thousands of children and we place on record our gratitude for the same.”

Each of these custom-designed vehicles has the capacity to deliver mid-day meals to over 4,500 underprivileged children and are a necessary part of the logistics involved in implementing the mid-day meal program.