Abhijith N Kolpe

Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru 

Mangaluru, Oct 16: Universal Knowledge Trust has introduced a concept ‘Food on Walls’ to provide free food at hotels using a coupon system for the hungry. A board has been placed outside the hotels where the hungry, with no money, can pick a coupon and give it to the hotel and free food will be provided. 

‘Food on Walls’ was introduced a year ago in three hotels in Mangaluru namely Iladha Vanas at Chilimbi, Hotel Kings Corner at Kudroli and Samak Dine in Balmatta. Apart from Mangaluru, the concept is introduced in Karkala, Dharwad, Belagavi, Puttur, Bengaluru and Shivamogga. 

Only 10-15 coupons can be provided to the needy and the amount will be transferred by Universal Knowledge at the beginning of the month. Each coupon costs Rs 50. Customers at the hotel can donate for the coupons by paying Rs 50 and can place them on the notice board outside the hotels. Close to 12,500 needy people have availed this facility since January this year. 

Speaking to Daijiworld, Dayanada Shetty, owner of hotel Illadha Vanas said, “It is a good concept. As many as 8-10 needy people will fill their stomach. There is a limitation of providing only 10-12 plates daily. But even if the number exceeds, we do not send back the needy. We give them the food. Even customers donate money and take coupons for the needy. The donors’ details will be stored in the Parivarthan app. Many needy people are benefiting from the concept." 

Ganesh Prasad, treasurer, Universal Knowledge Trust said, “The concept was the brainchild of Rohan Siriya to feed the hungry stomachs. So far, we have introduced the ‘Food on Walls’ concept at three hotels in Mangaluru. It is receiving a good response. Every month, we deposit the money to the hotel and request them to give 10-15 plates of food on a daily basis. If the number exceeds, the needy should not be sent back. If there is a demand, the hotels can ask for additional coupons.” 

Vasanth Poojary, owner of Hotel Kings Corner said, “On a daily basis, 15-20 free plates of food will be given. Sometimes, it goes up to 25 plates as well. If it extends beyond 15, I provide another five to the needy. Several students make use of this free food facility here.”