Gokak Lions Club takes a closer look at nourishment
Hunger is not always visible. Sometimes it is an empty plate. Sometimes it is a meal quietly skipped. And sometimes, it is harder to see—a lack of nourishment that persists even when food is available.
As clubs of District 317B planned their projects for the Weeks of Service – Hunger (January 3–11, 2026), District Governor Jaiamol Naik PMJF urged them to serve with deeper thought and purpose. Gokak Lions Club took that call seriously and chose to look closer at who needed support the most.
The focus turned to pregnant women in nearby villages—many of whom face what is often described as ‘hidden hunger’, where meals may be regular but nutrition is not. Under the leadership of Club President Shrishail Hanji and the guidance of Dr. Ashok Murgod, members designed a program that went beyond a conventional food distribution drive.
Drawing on the expertise of gynaecologists and nutritionists, sessions focused on the importance of balanced diets during pregnancy. The conversations were simple, practical, and grounded in everyday realities.
The effort then moved from awareness to action. Nutritious meals were prepared and served in a setting that ensured comfort and dignity. Women were invited to sit at tables, and meals were served to them with attention and respect.
Over nine days, 1,531 women were reached. But the significance of the effort lies beyond the numbers. It is seen in the idea that nourishment during pregnancy shapes not just the mother’s health, but the child’s well-being too.
By working with those often overlooked in standard food distribution efforts, Gokak Lions Club showed that hunger relief can be both thoughtful and specific.