How Pune based 50 SWaCH waste pickers raised Rs 5700 for a fellow waste picker in an emergency ? 

In a world that’s becoming more self-centred, jealousy competitive and selfishly bulldozing, over 50 waste pickers from Dhankawadi displayed a selfless act of compassion by contributing to raise Rs. 5700 for an urgent medical treatment of a fellow waste picker’s daughter, Geeta. 

Sangeeta Jadhav, Geeta’s mother, struggled to afford treatment for her daughter’s severe cough, which was diagnosed as tuberculosis after a month. Overwhelmed by mounting expenses and helplessness, Sangeeta turned to her waste picker friend, Vidya Naiknaware, for support.

Feeling the urgency and severity, Vidya spread the word amongst her fellow waste pickers and over 50 waste pickers along with some PMC workers working in Dhankawadi-Sahakar Nagar got together and contributed generously Rs. 50 to 500 each. A handsome amount of Rs. 5700 and a much needed emotional support offered a helping hand to Sangeeta in an emergency. Relieved by this surprise, Sangeeta, uncontrollably emotional, embraced her SWaCH waste picker friends. Teary-eyed Sangeeta expressed, “When nobody stood for me, my SWaCH family came forward and offered this help. I’m indebted to all my friends, despite their own problems, who didn’t hesitate to put me back on my feet in my difficult times. For us, SWaCH is not just an organization, but our family. My friends have proved it yet again.”

Vidya Naiknaware, waste picker leader, SWaCH, said “We always stand for each other. Our unity has helped us build our own organizations, position and identity. Helping our own fellow waste pickers in times of emergencies is an instinct for us. We told Sangeeta not to worry but also to be mindful of how everyone contributed despite their odd circumstances.” 

This touching gesture not only highlights the unwavering commitment of waste pickers to support one another but also serves as a powerful testament to the values of cooperation, camaraderie, and sisterhood deeply ingrained within the SWaCH and KKPKP waste pickers. 

Despite ample reasons for self-centeredness, waste pickers in Pune continue to demonstrate selflessness, compassion and collective action instead-be it standing with each other or picking waste from doorsteps of Pune.