Ludhiana: Maheeda , a non-government organization, distributed 300 blankets to the poor and needy people, who were mostly homeless and were sleeping on the footpaths or under bridges in the open. The initiative was undertaken to counter the severe chill that has gripped the northern part of country for past few days.

The organization is youth oriented and keeps organizing motivational and inspirational lectures in the schools and colleges in the city to get support both in cash and in kind. Mr Hardeep Brar, founder, Maheeda (NGO), said, “All the religions teach us basic and common concept of humanity and compassion. Due to our busy and hectic schedule the society in general turns a blind eye to the ills of society.

So we took this step to bring back the sense of responsibility. We hope that such initiatives inspire people to come out of their houses and do something constructive in real sense for the welfare of the underprivileged. The blankets had cost us Rs 48,000 and the fund was generated through our NRI members and some generous locals.”

The NGO chose to distribute the blankets in the early hours of the day, since most of the needy people are easily located sleeping in the open on the roadsides at that time.The NGO gets volunteers from schools and colleges; hence most of the members are from students.