A Prince George-based charity called Samuha Overseas Development Association (SODA) is hosting a dinner and silent auction to raise funds for a children’s disability program in rural south India.
All funds raised go directly to support an organization called Samuha in south India in the state of Karnataka that has an early intervention program for children under six years old, along with a spinal cord injury unit.
“Samuha relies on our funds to run their programs.” Hilary Crowley, founder of SODA in 1996, said. “We have committed to raising $20,000 each year.”
The Indian dinner, catered by Karahi King, will take place at the Columbus Community Centre, on Friday, Oct. 27 at 7 p.m.
Crowley spent a year in Karnataka from 1994-95, which was right at the height of the polio epidemic.
As a physiotherapist, Crowley was training people there to help those in need.
She returned year after year for about six weeks each time but has not been able to do so since the pandemic.
“Since polio has been eradicated in India for about a decade, the program now gears itself to all children with any kind of disability and adults who are disabled, as well,” Crowley said. “Our special project next year is to build an autistic centre, as they are now seeing many more children with autism and attention deficit disorder.”
SODA is looking to raise an additional $5,000 for the autistic centre program.
Crowley will host a slide show of the work done with Samuha so Prince George residents can see the facilities and programs their generous donations have enabled.
Admission to the fundraising dinner is by donation and charitable tax receipts will be given for all donations over $50. Reserve seats by calling Josina at 250 877-2295 or email soda.sec@gmail.com.
