They provide blankets to the homeless

BENGLAURU: December has been a cruel month for the homeless in Bengaluru, with cold breezes and drizzles. If you notice anyone sleeping without protection on the streets during cold weather, you can offer assistance. Contact 80738 18079 with their exact location details, and a photo if possible, and a response team will quickly provide them with a blanket and other essential support services.

The initiative operates through two NGOs: Active Bengaluru and Beyond Boundaries Foundation, both of which have volunteers across the city. “We've distributed approximately 400 blankets this year,” says Mohammed Shahid, 29, who works as a volunteer with Active Bengaluru. “The initiative is primarily self-funded. We strictly accept new blankets only. Recently, we've expanded to providing jackets and sweaters, considering the practical challenges homeless people face in maintaining blankets,” says Mohammed, a resident of Lakkasandra in Wilson Garden.
Those who receive the blankets are invariably overjoyed.

The initiative means a lot to volunteers like Sadiq Rahmatullah, a 29-year-old resident of Shiva jinagar. "I often wonder how I can sleep peacefully in my bed while someone struggles to find warmth on the cold roads. This thought drives me to share what I can— blankets, jackets, and a little comfort for those in need."

The social welfare department has also offered support for those needing destitute homes, though many prefer staying on the streets as they don’t want to give up freedom for security. “I don’t know what is in their minds. We want to be part of the solution and not the problem,” says Mohammed.