Joy of Giving : Wheelchair Donation Drive for Differently-Abled Children

The Federation of Indian Associations successfully donated 100 wheelchairs to differently-abled children in Ahmedabad, supporting mobility and independence. This initiative marks the start of a commitment to donate 500 wheelchairs across India.

Ahmedabad - The Federation of Indian Associations of USA (FIA NY–NJ–CT–NE), the largest and premier grassroots nonprofit organization representing the Indian community across eight states on the East Coast of the United States, successfully concluded its 'Joy of Giving' wheelchair donation drive dedicated to supporting differently-abled children in Ahmedabad. The humanitarian initiative took place recently at Apang Manav Mandal, Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Through this meaningful effort, 100 wheelchairs were donated to children in need in Ahmedabad, marking the beginning of FIA's larger commitment to donate 500 wheelchairs across India. The remaining 400 wheelchairs will be distributed in other states, helping enhance mobility, independence, and dignity for differently-abled children nationwide. The ceremony was graced by the presence of FIA Chairman Ankur Vaidya, alongside distinguished donors and organizational leadership.

The 'Joy of Giving' initiative, valued at 20 lac Rupees, was made possible through the generous support of Sreekanth Akkapalli, FIA President 2026, the Vaidya Family, and distinguished donors, including FIA Board Member Kenny Desai, FIA Board Member Anil Bansal, FIA Vice President Priti Ray Patel, and Saurin Parikh, FIA President 2025. Carried out under the powerful message 'Because Every Child Deserves to Move Forward', the program underscored the importance of accessibility, inclusion, and equal opportunities for children with physical challenges. Reflecting on the initiative, FIA Chairman Ankur Vaidya shared, "Our visit to Apang Manav Mandal has been truly transformative. The resilience of these exceptional students has taught us invaluable lessons about courage and perseverance. FIA pledges to continue such humanitarian drives, ensuring we remain steadfast partners in building a more inclusive society."

Kshitish Madanmohan, Managing Trustee and President of Apang Manav Mandal, expressed his heartfelt gratitude, stating, "We are deeply honored to partner with FIA for this noble cause. The generosity demonstrated by FIA and its donors will transform the lives of our children," while inviting the guests for 'Deep Pragatya', a traditional lamp lighting ceremony. Dr. Kamal C Shah, General Secretary of Apang Manav Mandal, delivered a vote of thanks, expressing profound appreciation. "On behalf of Apang Manav Mandal and the children whose lives will be forever changed, we extend our deepest gratitude to FIA, Ankur Vaidya, and all the distinguished donors who made this initiative possible."

This initiative aligns with FIA's 2026 theme 'Harmony in Heritage', which celebrates the rich cultural diversity of the Indian diaspora. Throughout the year, FIA hosts events including Dance Pe Chance, International Women's Day, Bihar Day, Odisha Foundation Day, Gujarat-Maharashtra Day, International Yoga Day, India Day Parade with Flag Hoisting at Times Square, Bharat Beyond Borders Grand Gala at Cipriani Wall Street, and the Diwali Soup Kitchen. Established in 1970, the Federation of Indian Associations has earned official recognition in the United States Congressional Record, been honored with India's prestigious Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award, and holds two Guinness World Records.