Author: Haseeb Khalid
It was a chilly November afternoon in 2023 when I received a message that would change my life: “Do you want to become a volunteer for the Mikael Rayaan Foundation?”
I had always known about the foundation and shared a close bond with its founders. The answer was an easy one. How could I say no to an organization so deeply committed to the health and well-being of children—whether through medical care, nutrition, or mental health support. Little did I know, that one simple question would spark a journey that would not only transform my life but also the lives of countless children and families in need.
The Beginning: A New Challenge
In February 2024, while visiting Pakistan, I received another message—this time from Dr. Sibgha and Dr. Umair, two of the driving forces behind the foundation. They shared the exciting news: the Meals on Wheels program, which had previously served only one location, was expanding to a new area. They invited me to help set up this new chapter. Though I had never organized such a program before, I couldn’t turn down the challenge.
With limited time in Lahore, I immediately began researching how to make the program sustainable, efficient, and scalable. I also had to figure out how to monitor it remotely once I returned home. Thanks to the guidance of my father and brother, we set out to visit multiple locations and interview caterers, ultimately selecting a trusted vendor capable of consistently delivering high-quality meals to the community.
The Big Day: Bringing Meals to the Community
The day we delivered our first meals to the children remains etched in my memory. I’ll never forget the excitement and joy on their faces as they eagerly lined up to receive their meals. It was a bit chaotic at first—everyone wanted to grab their portion—but, over time, the children began to organize themselves. Their energy was infectious, and soon enough, the sight of them sitting in neat rows was heartwarming.
What started as a day filled with hustle and logistical challenges quickly became a symbol of hope for the families in the community. The Meals on Wheels program had grown into something much larger than just feeding hungry children—it was about fostering a sense of community, strengthening families, and offering vital support to those who needed it the most.
A Well-Oiled Routine: Feeding Over 150 Children Every Week
Once the program was up and running, I was amazed at how quickly it grew. Each week, my team now delivers meals to over 150 children—something I never anticipated when we first started. At first, it was a steep learning curve: organizing the meals, coordinating logistics, and ensuring everything ran smoothly. But with time, we honed the process.
Today, the meals are a balanced mix of nutritious dishes—ranging from rice and chicken to lentils and proteins—carefully designed to nourish the children’s growing bodies and minds. But these meals are more than just food; they represent an opportunity to make a meaningful, tangible difference in a child’s life.
More Than Just Meals: Strengthening Families
The Meals on Wheels program goes beyond simply filling empty stomachs; it provides relief to families struggling to make ends meet. Many parents in these communities are working multiple jobs just to survive, and for them, knowing that their children will receive a nutritious meal each week brings a sense of comfort and security.
In this way, the program has become a lifeline—not just for the children, but for entire families. It’s a reminder that they are not alone in their struggles and that there are people who care about their well-being.
A Community Coming Together: The Power of Compassion
The success of Meals on Wheels is a testament to the power of community. From the volunteers who dedicate their time and energy to preparing the meals, to the families who depend on them, there is a shared sense of purpose and compassion. The Mikael Rayaan Foundation has created something truly special—a space where kindness meets action. It’s a place where even the smallest gesture can have a profound, lasting impact.
Reflecting on my journey as a volunteer, I feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude. The difference that a meal can make in a child’s life is far greater than I ever anticipated. The smiles, the relief, the joy—these are the moments that keep me going.
How You Can Help: Become Part of the Change
If the story of the Mikael Rayaan Foundation’s Meals on Wheels program has inspired you, there are many ways you can get involved and make a difference. Whether you volunteer your time, donate food, or help spread the word, every action counts. Together, we can continue to make a lasting impact on the lives of children and families in need.
The Meals on Wheels program is not just a weekly routine—it’s a movement. And I am incredibly proud to be part of it.
