Nourishing Bodies. Nurturing Futures.
INDIA
Every child deserves a full stomach and a fair chance at education. The India Mid Day Meal Program is a life-changing initiative which ensures just that for thousands of underprivileged children in the Diocese of Bhagalpur, located in Bihar and Jharkhand—two of the poorest regions in India.
Led by Fr. Thomas, Parish Priest at St. Benedict's Church in Bhagalpur, and in partnership with the Bhagalpur Prefecture Association, this program brings hope to some of India’s most vulnerable communities. With a deep commitment to holistic care, the Diocese supports thousands of families through Catholic Education and faith formation.
Hunger and poverty are daily struggles for families in the rural villages of Bihar and Jharkhand. Many parents, unable to provide daily meals, are forced to migrate in search of work and children often drop out of school to help at home.
To combat this crisis, the Diocese launched MANNA, a Mid Day Meal Program providing essential nutrition to over 17,600 children across remote parish schools. However, due to funding constraints, the program's continuity is at risk.
"For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat…" – Matthew 25:35
By addressing hunger, we open the doors of education and plant seeds of transformation.
With deep faith and a generous spirit, CWM supporter, Father Thomas a Parish Priest in St. Benedict has initiated MANNA, a Mid Day Meal Program. Many are unable to attend class simply because they are hungry.
PROJECT UPDATES
A Safer Home for Girls in Kaniket September 2026 Thank you, Catholic World Mission donors! You generosity and support of the MANNA Midday Meal Project continues to transform the lives of children across Bihar and Jharkhand by addressing hunger and creating better opportunities for learning. This year alone, more than 7,133 children received nutritious meals each day, helping improve school attendance, concentration, and overall well-being for students in some of the region's most underserved communities.
In addition to providing daily meals, the project strengthened school environments through the installation of ceiling fans, water purifiers, hand pumps, and classroom improvements. Repairs to roofs, walls, toilets, and water systems created safer, cleaner, and more comfortable spaces where children can learn and thrive. These enhancements have reduced heat stress, improved access to clean water, and fostered healthier learning conditions.
As a flagship ministry, the MANNA program reflects the Church's commitment to caring for the whole person by supporting the dignity, health, and education of vulnerable children. Through your generosity, thousands of students are receiving not only nourishment for today, but also hope and opportunity for a brighter future.
In addition to the Manna Midday program your generous donations also transformed the Girls' Hostel in Kaniket into a safer, healthier, and more welcoming home for young women from vulnerable and remote communities. Major renovations, including structural repairs, upgraded dormitories, improved water systems, enhanced lighting and ventilation, and renovated kitchen facilities, have created a supportive environment where students can focus on their education and personal growth.
Thanks to faithful supporters, this life-changing mission continues to strengthen communities, empower young learners, and witness Christ's love through compassionate service.
Help keep meals on the table and children in the classroom. Support Catholic World Mission’s work in India
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