In the verdant GN division of Poonakary, where the land was rich with history but often challenged by the 30-year war against terrorism and the harshness of climate, the spirit of the people remained unyielding. Among these resilient souls was Velupilai Mahendran a resident of Veddukadu and S Rajeswary a resident of Paramankirai wise elders known for their deep connection to the earth and her dream of a self-sustaining community.
The Appé Lanka project had brought many blessings to Poonakary, from clean water to educational resources. But Rajeswari had a vision that went beyond immediate needs. She dreamed of a village where every household cultivated its own food, where the land would once again flourish under the care of its people.
One day, at a village meeting, Rajeswari and shared her vision. “Our ancestors thrived because they knew how to work with the land,” she said. “We have the knowledge and the strength to do the same. Let us grow our own food and ensure no family goes hungry.”
Inspired by her words, the Appé Lanka team introduced the “We Grow Our Own Food” initiative. Led by Shaan Corea, the project aimed to provide seeds, tools, and training to families in Poonakary, empowering them to create home gardens. The transformation began with a series of workshops. Villagers gathered to learn about sustainable farming practices, seed selection, and soil preparation. Rajeswari with her wealth of traditional knowledge, became a guiding light for the community, teaching them the age-old techniques that had once sustained their ancestors.
Rajeswari, Velapulai eager to help their family and contribute to the village, took to the project with enthusiasm. Every evening, they worked preparing the soil and planting seeds. They carefully tended to their garden, watching with awe as tiny sprouts emerged from the earth.
Weeks passed, and the village landscape began to change. Where there were once barren patches, lush green gardens now flourished. Tomatoes, beans, spinach, and an array of herbs filled the air with their fresh, earthy scent. The once-dependable trips to the market for food supplies became less frequent, as the villagers proudly harvested their own produce.
The impact of the initiative extended beyond just food security. It fostered a sense of unity and purpose within the community. Neighbors exchanged tips and produce, creating a network of support and camaraderie. The children, including Manivannan Thadshayani, learned invaluable lessons about agriculture, responsibility, and the rewards of hard work.
One evening, as the village gathered for a communal feast, the fruits of their labor were on full display. Tables were adorned with dishes made from the fresh vegetables and herbs grown in their gardens Rajeswari with tears of joy in her eyes, addressed the crowd. “Today, we celebrate not just the food on our tables but the strength and spirit of our community. Together, we have proven that with determination and unity, we can achieve anything.”
Shaan witnessing the transformation, felt a deep sense of fulfillment. The “We Grow Our Own Food” initiative had not only nourished bodies but also fed the souls of the villagers, instilling in them a renewed sense of pride and independence.
As the sun set over Poonakary, casting a golden glow over the flourishing gardens, the villagers knew they had taken a significant step toward self-sufficiency. The Appé Lanka project had once again shown that true empowerment comes from within, and with the right support, dreams could indeed become reality.
