When the City Stood Still, Humanity Stepped Forward

Ration Distribution in Dharavi During Covid-19

In Dharavi, life moves on the strength of daily earnings. For thousands of families, each day’s work determines whether there will be food on the table that night. But when the COVID-19 struck, the city fell silent—and with it, the fragile lifeline of daily wages disappeared.

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The lockdown brought with it an uncertainty that many had never experienced before. Streets were empty, work had come to a halt, and kitchens began to run out of supplies. For several families, the question was no longer about income—but survival.

When everything had stopped, Dharavi Foundation stood by us. They took care of our basic needs when we had no means to earn. Since then, we share a strong bond with their team. We will always remember their support during the lockdown.

-Mangal Khandekar (46)

 (One of the Beneficiaries)

It was during this time of crisis that the Dharavi Foundation stepped in, determined to ensure that no family slept hungry. In collaboration with Centre for Transforming India Step by Step, the team began identifying the most affected households across the community.

What followed was not just a distribution drive—but a lifeline. Over the course of the initiative, dry ration kits containing essential food supplies were delivered to families in urgent need. Each kit was carefully prepared to sustain a household for weeks, bringing not just nourishment but also a sense of relief in an otherwise uncertain time. For many, this support meant more than just food.