Compassion in Action: Students of Palakkad Raise ₹3 Lakh to Build Home for Homeless Schoolmates

In a heartwarming display of community spirit and youthful determination, students of the Government Higher Secondary School in Pottassery, Palakkad, have raised ₹3 lakh through a unique fundraising initiative called the “Palada Payasam Challenge.” This initiative aims to support two of their schoolmates who lost their father and are currently without a home. The challenge involved selling the traditional sweet dessert, palada payasam. Over just two days, the students managed to sell an impressive 3,250 litres of this beloved delicacy, capturing the community’s generosity and goodwill to contribute towards a noble cause. The funds raised will be utilized to construct the walls of a new house for their homeless peers.

This effort is part of the broader Koodorukkal Scheme, a housing project driven by the students themselves. The sixth house under this scheme is now underway, a testament to the consistent and dedicated efforts of these young changemakers. Previously, the students had mobilized ₹1 lakh through a Scrap Challenge, which allowed them to complete the foundation work of the house. The initiative was spearheaded by various units within the school, including the Student Police Cadet, NSS, Scout, and Guide units, highlighting a commendable coordination among different student groups.

Key leaders guiding this mission include School Principal Santosh Kumar, PTA President K Jayaraj, Headmistress Sajiha Beegum, and Project Committee Convener Michael Joseph, supported by dedicated committee members and teachers. Student leaders such as Ayana Babu, Lakshmi Nanda, and N Shwetha also played pivotal roles in organizing and executing the event. The students went beyond merely selling the payasam they proactively visited houses and establishments beforehand to take advance orders and later distributed the dessert accordingly, ensuring a smooth and successful campaign.

This initiative not only exemplifies the power of compassion and community collaboration but also demonstrates how young minds can drive social change with creativity and spirit. The team remains hopeful that ongoing generosity from well-wishers will help them complete the construction soon, changing the lives of two deserving students for the better.

Read more at: https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2025/11/11/student-fundraising-palada-payasam.html