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| From Kolkata Rotary Photos 2010 |
To get there we had to take a ferry across to the island -- a very interesting process. Vehicles did not wait at the top, leaving a lane free for the off-loading vehicles. Instead, trucks lined up right down to the loading ramp, leaving maybe a half-lane for vehicles coming off the ferrry to get by. To make it even more difficult, the vehicles backed off the ferry and up the hill, unless they were a small vehicle and were able to turn around. One could also call it the shuffle, as the vehicles waiting to get on, shuffled a little to the left, a little to the right -- whatever it took for the off-loading vehichles to get back. I continue to be amazed by the driving talent here in India.
When we arrived at our destination, some of the children had arrived. Families left their home as early as 4 am to get to the island and receive their bedkit. When the children arrived, they were provided a hot meal. For some it was breakfast, for some an early lunch, but for many the only meal they would have that day. It was great to see the example of co-operation between the local, urban, and international groups to make sure the children were fed and that they received their bedkits.
Our visit was very timely because in the late fall this area was hit by a tornado and there was extensive flooding and damage. For most of the children the bedkits were desperately needed.
It was a great day! We had fun interacting with the kids, teaching them how to play frisbee, give high fives, and thumbs up!! By the time they had their picture taken, they were giving us the thumbs up!!
No matter how far the children travel, no matter how long they have to wait their turn -- they are well-behaved and patient -- and we are always guaranteed smiles from them.
Shelley Duggan
for Team Kolkata 2010
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