Beyond the Plate: Ekta Foundation’s Holistic Approach to Community Well-being

In India’s cities, many women face challenges that prevent them from reaching their full potential. Limited by societal norms, economic hardships, and lack of opportunities, they often find themselves on the edges of society.  Ekta Foundation is working hard to change this by empowering women in a way that goes beyond.

Traditionally, helping marginalized communities has meant giving them basic needs. While this is important, it’s just the beginning.  Ekta Foundation believes in a comprehensive approach that nurtures the body, mind, and spirit. By helping women become self-sufficient and active members of society, we are addressing the root causes of their struggles and promoting lasting change. Central to our mission is the belief that economic independence is key to empowering women.

 To achieve this, Ekta Foundation has set up five central kitchens named “Didi ka dhaba”. These kitchens are more than just places to cook; they are places where dreams and aspirations grow. Through intensive training in cooking, business management, and financial skills, we have equipped over 300 women with the tools they need to transform their lives and employing 120 women currently and rest became self-sufficient.

Our training programs are thorough, lasting 15 days with six hours of daily instruction, amounting to a total of 27,000 training hours till now. This comprehensive training goes beyond cooking techniques; it builds entrepreneurial skills. By learning about food costing, packaging, and inventory management, these women become budding entrepreneurs.

Our kitchens produce 22,000 meals per day, showcasing the scale of our operations. However, the numbers only tell part of the story. Our commitment to quality and hygiene sets us apart. Our kitchens are meticulously maintained, and the food we prepare is both healthy and delicious, reflecting our dedication to providing wholesome meals.

Beyond economic empowerment, our initiative promotes gender equality. By creating opportunities for women to participate in the formal economy, we challenge traditional gender roles and break down barriers. These women are not just earning a livelihood; they are role models, inspiring others to pursue their dreams.

Additionally, our kitchens serve as a support system for these women and their families. By providing nutritious meals to the women and their children, we ensure they have the healthy bodies and minds needed to reach their full potential. Our model is unique in its focus on end-to-end operations managed exclusively by women. From procurement to cooking, packaging, and delivery, women are at the helm. This approach fosters a sense of ownership and pride among our employees, strengthening their belief in their abilities.

Ekta Foundation’s journey is far from over. We are committed to expanding our reach and impact. By replicating this successful model in other areas, we aim to create a ripple effect of empowerment, transforming lives and communities. Our vision is a future where women are not just beneficiaries of development programs but active participants in shaping the nation’s destiny.

Through our holistic approach, we are not just providing meals; we are building futures. We are not just empowering individuals; we are strengthening communities. We are not just meeting needs; we are igniting aspirations. Ekta Foundation is more than an organization; it is a movement, a catalyst for positive change.