
Chennai, May 2025 – The Goodness Foundation proudly launched Food42 – 2025, a nationwide campaign to combat hunger, in a heartfelt event that brought together influencers, social leaders, and compassionate citizens under one banner for a greater cause—Zero Hunger (SDG Goal 2).
The event was graced by prominent chief guests Actor Mr. Santhosh Prathap and Actor Mr. Raanav, whose presence added inspiration and energy to the campaign’s mission. They were joined by Guests of Honour Mr. Joe Michael, Founder of the Razzmatazz Group, and Rev. Rajah Prabhakaran, who also delivered encouraging and thought-provoking addresses.
Founder Mr. Paul Raja delivered a powerful keynote, emphasizing the paradox of India’s hunger crisis.
“India is one of the top food-producing nations in the world, yet over 190 million people go to bed hungry every night,” he said. “We are not poor in resources, but in distribution and compassion.”
He highlighted the tragic impact of hunger on children, sharing that globally, over 3.1 million children under the age of five die from hunger-related causes each year, and in India, malnutrition contributes to over 30% of child deaths.
Drawing a relatable analogy, Mr. Paul said,
“At Indian weddings, we always cook more than needed—ensuring that no one leaves hungry. Even strangers are welcomed with a plate of food. What if we brought that same heart into our daily lives? If each of us makes sure that at least two people are fed regularly, we can move closer to a hunger-free India.”
He urged everyone to live out the Food42 principle—not just as a campaign, but as a daily act of kindness and responsibility.
The event began with a warm welcome address by Mrs. Vasanthy Gilbert, Director of the Goodness Foundation, who introduced the Foundation’s ongoing work in education, healthcare, livelihood, and nutrition through its various initiatives.
In a moving moment, the chief guests and dignitaries served food to children, symbolically marking the official inauguration of the Food42 – 2025 campaign.
Following the launch, Goodness Foundation volunteers took to the streets of Chennai to distribute food packets to the homeless and underprivileged, turning compassion into action and embodying the spirit of Food42.
The event concluded with renewed energy and collective commitment to work toward Zero Hunger, taking the campaign into schools, neighborhoods, and communities—one plate at a time.
For more information, visit www.goodnessfoundation.in.