The Ruparelia Foundation on Friday held its annual festive outreach in Kyebando, bringing together families, children, and volunteers for a community-focused event held in memory of the late Rajiv Ruparelia. The activity marked the third year the foundation has organised the programme in the area, continuing a community initiative built on values of inclusion and shared responsibility.
The event took place on Friday in a simple and welcoming setting, with organisers focusing on participation rather than entertainment. Community members were encouraged to spend time together and share the season in a meaningful way.
Speaking to residents, Chryshna Ruparelia said the initiative was started by Rajiv Ruparelia, who believed festive celebrations should extend beyond private homes and reach families who are often left out. She explained that he introduced the programme two years ago as a way of linking celebration with social responsibility.
She added that Rajiv placed strong importance on celebrating with children and vulnerable families, which is why the outreach continues to be organised in his memory.
Since its launch, the programme has grown into a yearly commitment. Following Rajiv Ruparelia’s passing, the initiative has been sustained under the leadership of Shina Ruparelia through the Ruparelia Foundation, ensuring its continuity.
Organisers said the foundation’s work is not limited to seasonal assistance. Instead, it focuses on long term engagement by maintaining a consistent presence within the same communities, allowing trust and relationships to develop over time.
This year’s outreach also highlighted plans for expansion. In addition to Kyebando, the foundation is preparing to extend the programme to Nansana, where about sixty children are expected to benefit. The foundation said it plans to introduce one new location each year, taking a gradual approach to growth.
Partnerships played an important role during the outreach. Annette Kim, a team leader with the Ruparelia Foundation, highlighted collaboration with the Ekilawuli community, which is involved in recycling plastic waste. Through the partnership, used plastic bottles are cleaned and transformed into reusable household items such as plates.
She said the project supports environmental conservation while also providing income and practical skills to single mothers involved in collecting and processing the materials.
Alongside the recycling initiative, families received food items, scholastic materials and sanitation supplies. Residents said the support would help reduce financial pressure during the festive season. For many children, the event also provided a sense of inclusion.
Chryshna Ruparelia thanked Shina Ruparelia, the organising team, volunteers and partners for their support, noting that the foundation remains committed to keeping Rajiv Ruparelia’s vision alive through practical community engagement.
