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— SHINING LIGHT
Approximately a year ago, Agapai embarked on a simple charity mission aimed at assisting visually impaired individuals who were hindered by poverty in a rural area. However, this endeavour took a more meaningful turn as it was discovered that many of these individuals possessed vocational skills, such as carpentry and candle-making, that could be utilised to facilitate self-employment. In fact, among this population, there were notable graduates and post-graduates who were empowered in their areas of expertise. Though they were different in terms of ability, their skills and strengths were not enough to alleviate their challenging circumstances. Regrettably, their lack of vision impeded their ability to pursue job opportunities that would have bettered their situation.
India is presently recognised as having the largest global populace of individuals with visual impairment, with estimates suggesting that eight million out of the 36 million worldwide are affected. This figure is deemed to be a conservative estimation, as some alternate projections suggest that the actual number of blind individuals in India may be as high as 15 million. Unsettlingly, authoritative reports indicate that, in roughly 80% of these cases, proper preventative ocular care could have avoided the onset of blindness. This reality must be viewed as a matter of concern for society at large. It is plausible that this issue may become a focal point for Agapai in the future.
the power
Agapai has taken the initiative to address an urgent need that has been identified - the improvement of employability amongst visually impaired individuals residing in a rural region of Tamil Nadu. Such an effort has been undertaken based on feedback from this community. While Agapai had previously provided assistance in the form of food and clothing during periodic visits, individuals expressed the sentiment that finding employment would provide greater opportunities for them to lead dignified lives without sacrificing their self-esteem.
From little
Our initial endeavour entails involving individuals with visual impairments in the production of aromatic candles. Agapai provides assistance with training and marketing of the candles, with a commitment to donating profits back to the creators. However, this initiative has not deterred us from our larger philanthropic mission. We remain committed to distributing essential provisions, including rice, sugar, oil, and wheat, to approximately 30 impoverished individuals with visual impairments three times annually.
NOT THAT EASY
The initiative concerning aromatic candles has experienced a smooth operation despite initial hurdles that were encountered and duly resolved. These challenges included improper colouring, inadequate aroma, overheating, burnt out candles and limited shapes. Given that paraffin wax is highly inflammable, producing candles requires precision and cautious handling. In order to diversify the candle-making process, additional molds in various shapes were created to bring a welcoming dimension to the venture. The choice of aroma was limited to jasmine and rose, which were chosen primarily based on their availability. Importantly, to uphold safety and accuracy in the use of ingredients like aromatic oils, a supervisor is on site to provide oversight and guidance. Candles have been a source of illumination in homes for ages past, predating the advent of electricity. Today, they serve as a beacon of hope to the visually impaired, offering dignity and a way out of the darkness that had earlier enveloped them.
support in numbers
To show your support towards the visually impaired, the purchase of aromatic candles produced by them through Agapai is an excellent opportunity. Please do not hesitate to contact us via written correspondence or by phone for further information or to place orders. Early supporters of this cause include wedding parties who purchase aromatic candles to gift to their guests. Additionally, these candles may also serve as ideal gifts for corporate parties. We invite you to participate in spreading a gentle and soothing glow with the relaxing scent of sweetness blended with kindness. Your involvement in this initiative would be greatly appreciated.