During week commencing 23 February, Rotarians all over the world will be raising money for the final push in polio eradication by taking part in The World’s Greatest Meal to Help End Polio.
Polio has been eradicated from most countries in the world and Rotarians hope that India will be declared a polio eradicated country shortly.
Those who sign up to The World’s Greatest Meal are being asked to share a meal with their club members, friends, family or work colleagues in any way that they can get together. During the meal, donations will be sought for the End Polio Now campaign. Participants may wish to hold a frugal meal in place of a full meal with the difference in cost being donated. Alternatively, they may invite friends and neighbours round for tea or coffee in return for a donation – the ideas and outcomes are limitless.
The World’s Greatest Meal was the brainchild of two Rotarians from either side of the globe – Mukesh Malhotra of the Rotary Club of Hounslow and Susanne Rea of the Rotary Club of Cairns Sunrise in Australia. The idea was launched on Facebook just before Christmas and has already attracted almost three thousand members from Rotary clubs spanning five continents.
Mukesh Malhotra commented: “India is very close to being declared a polio free country and we are keen to keep up the momentum by holding this international event to raise extra funds. We have been blown away by the response so far. Commitments to participate are coming in daily with fifty received so far and many more promised. It is still early days but we are hoping to raise a lot of money for the polio cause.”
Those taking part in the event are being reminded that every US$1 raised will be matched by US$2 by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Every dollar matched will immunise seven children. To take part go to Rotary The World’s Greatest Meal to Help End Polio.
