At a time when any medical help is welcome, two thoughtful students of a Bengaluru-based international school are all set to provide oximeters for the underprivileged.

Sneha Raghavan and Shloka Ashok, class 10 students of Greenwood High International School, Bengaluru are on a mission to provide 200 oximeters to the underprivileged families and people.

The duo hope to achieve their goal with the money that is raised through a fundraising initiative. According to the school, in a matter of just 24 hours since they started the initiative, the students were able to raise a sum of Rs. 2 lakh. The proceeds will be used to purchase oximeters in association with Sampark, a city-based NGO. 

The NGO which works with vulnerable groups will distribute these oximeters to people residing in the city’s slums and among rural women in villages across Koppal, a city in North Karnataka.

With the second wave of Covid-19 striking many states with an unprecedented number of cases, the underprivileged are facing an uphill battle to access life-saving drugs and essentials. The initiative was conceived when a social worker approached the students with the idea and both the students took a keen interest in the project.

Students reached out to various oximeter manufacturers to negotiate the most economical deal. Later they designed posters and created a fundraiser page on the ‘GiveIndia’ website that endorsed the project and helped them with the financial aspects.  

Commenting on the initiative, Shloka Ashok says, “Being in the midst of a global pandemic, I realised that it is extremely important to take a step and give back to society. As my exams have been postponed, I am looking forward to being a part of many more such initiatives and help those who are in dire need of help.”

Overwhelmed with the response received by the initiative, Sneha Raghavan says, “We had never thought that our initiative would get such immense support and response. We are extremely grateful to all the donors who participated and contributed to our fundraiser. This has certainly encouraged me to undertake more such social cause initiatives in the near future. This initiative has taught me how your one single act of random kindness can have a huge impact on someone’s life.”

Lauding the efforts of the students, Niru Agarwal, Trustee, Greenwood High International School, said that the school would encourage more students to participate in similar activities during these testing times. “We strongly believe that sometimes small steps undertaken by each individual can lead to a greater good.”

Also read: Greenwood High student’s unique initiative a boon to migrants