By Mewati Sitaram
In the bustling neighbourhood of Parel, L&T Crescent Bay Housing Society has launched a heartwarming initiative that merges sustainability with empathy. The society has installed a community refrigerator on its premises to reduce food wastage while supporting the hardworking staff who keep the society running smoothly.
The refrigerator allows residents to place leftover food from their homes or social events in clean, sealed containers. This food is then made available to housekeeping staff, security personnel, and other support workers, who can collect meals as per their needs. To ensure comfort and dignity, the society has also provided basic amenities such as plates, spoons, and a microwave, enabling staff to warm their meals and eat respectfully.
What began as a small step is now being seen as a model for responsible and compassionate living. Residents of Crescent Bay believe that if similar initiatives are adopted across housing societies nationwide, it could significantly reduce food wastage while addressing hunger among the often-overlooked support staff.
Rajendra Chopra, actively involved in community welfare efforts
Rajendra Chopra, a society resident, said, “There’s a deep sense of fulfillment in seeing our extra food nourish someone else—it’s a simple act, but the satisfaction it brings is far greater than we imagined. Earlier, we used to discard leftover food without a second thought. Now, seeing that same food bring a smile to someone who’s been on their feet all day really hits home. It feels like we’re doing something right, something human.”
Chopra and other residents feel that beyond reducing waste, the project has helped build stronger community bonds. “This may seem like a modest beginning,” he added, “but it carries the potential to inspire a nationwide movement centered on sustainability and empathy.”
A security staff member, who wished to remain anonymous, shared his gratitude: “Sometimes, we skip meals or just have tea because of time or circumstances. But now, finding something warm to eat—it feels like someone sees us, cares for us. That small gesture means more than words can say.”
In an age where urban isolation is common, initiatives like this remind us that real change starts within communities.
Editor in Chief : Mewati SItaram
