In the heart of the bustling Kalindi Kunj slum, where narrow lanes were teeming with people, a wave of hope and health arrived one fateful day. The Miles2Smile Foundation, committed to serving communities in need, partnered with the Project Rahi to organize a free medical camp for the slum residents. This initiative aimed to bring relief to those often overlooked by mainstream healthcare, who struggled not only with diseases like dengue, malaria, and chikungunya but also with the burden of ignorance and financial hardship when it came to seeking medical help.
With many residents living in close proximity to stagnant water and unsanitary conditions, the risk of mosquito-borne diseases was high. Sadly, many were unaware of the symptoms and precautions for these diseases, making the impact of the camp even more critical.
The medical camp was held on September 27, and the moment the banner of the “Neighbourhood Health Camp” was hung on the flyover pillar, the slum residents came out in full force, eager for the free check-ups. Dr. Salma was ready to offer consultations, while the team was prepared to distribute free medicines and provide much-needed education on the importance of hygiene and health.
As the event began, Aasif Mujtaba, the founder of Miles2Smile, and Daniyal Ashraf, founder of TPR Foundation, kicked off the event with motivational speeches. Their words resonated deeply with the crowd. Daniyal reminded everyone that they were the ones who could help themselves move forward, and that taking care of their health was the first step toward progress. “Whether it’s related to your education, skills, health, or anything else, we are here to help you,” he said, stirring a sense of pride and purpose among the people.
Aasif Mujtaba also spoke passionately, recognizing the women of the community for their resilience and dedication to caring for their families. “You are doing an exceptional job taking care of your children. Your health and the health of your children are crucial,” he told them.
As the day went on, a long line formed in front of Dr. Salma’s consultation tent, where residents shared their health concerns and received expert advice. The camp also offered refreshments, much to the delight of the children, who eagerly lined up for a treat. The spirit of the camp was one of unity and care, as the volunteers and staff worked tirelessly to ensure that each individual was seen and heard.
Once the camp concluded, Miles2Smile’s commitment didn’t end. The team revisited the slum the following day to see how they could continue to help. The residents shared concerns about other issues, such as access to clean water and food rations. One resident, Shazina Khatoon, a mother to a four-month-old daughter, shared how the camp had been a huge relief, especially given her limited access to healthcare. She also expressed her ongoing struggles with basic needs. Miles2Smile promised to address these issues, particularly by providing access to potable water in the coming months.
For the volunteers, the experience was equally fulfilling. Laiba Noor, co-founder of The Rahi Project, spoke about the value of working together to raise awareness and provide aid to those in need. The camp wasn’t just a one-time event; it was a step toward building a lasting impact. The team’s efforts were evident in the smiles of the residents and the sense of community that had been fostered.
By the end of the day, over 1000 individuals had benefited from the camp’s services, with more than 40 families receiving direct medical attention. The success of the camp was not just in the treatment provided but in the way it helped residents feel seen, supported, and empowered to take charge of their health.
But the work didn’t stop there. Miles2Smile’s commitment to the slum residents continued beyond the camp. In the days that followed, the team distributed mosquito nets, repellent creams, and additional medicines to ensure the health of the residents remained a priority. It was clear that the “Neighbourhood Health Initiative” wasn’t just an event—it was the beginning of a new chapter for the slum community, where health, hope, and a helping hand would always be within reach.
