The Locavore for Tamarind Tree Kitchen

Nestled within a 13-acre chikoo orchard in the serene tribal village of Dahanu, Maharashtra, lies the Tamarind Tree School—a beacon of open access education and knowledge for the local Adivasi community. This alternative, technology-driven English medium school stands as a testament to the belief that every child, regardless of their background, deserves a quality education that empowers them to become independent, lifelong learners. Recognized by the Maharashtra Education Department, Tamarind Tree currently enlightens approximately 100 students across pre-primary to grade 8 levels.

In September 2022, The Locavore team had the privilege to peek  inside the wonderful kitchen at Tamarind Tree School. This kitchen doesn’t just focus on nutrition; it opens doors to a world of diverse foods like idlis and dosas—experiences previously unknown to many students, especially those from the Warli tribal community, who are often first-generation learners.

This kitchen stands out not merely as a place for meal preparation but as a dynamic classroom. Here, younger students enhance their reading by engaging with the daily menu, while all students are encouraged to voice their preferences, fostering not just language skills but a sense of agency and importance in their opinions on food.

Join The Locavore's #DoingGoodThroughFood Anniversary Campaign

As The Locavore celebrates its second anniversary, we’re rallying to support the Tamarind Tree kitchen, currently facing a funding shortfall, to ensure it continues its critical role in the community. Here’s how you can make a difference:

How can you help?
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DONATE:

Your contribution can help sustain the kitchen’s operations. Donors giving more than Rs 1,000 will receive a letter from the Tamarind Tree School children.

VOLUNTEER:

Join the Tamarind Tree volunteer or mentorship program and make a direct impact. We have opportunities for online one on one mentorship as well as teaching syllabus and off syllabus courses. 

VISIT:

If donating or joining the mentorship program isn’t possible for you at this moment, but you’re keen on visiting the Tamarind Tree

Bonus Feature:  All contributors who support this cause have a chance to win a spot on The Locavore’s  #DoingGoodThroughFood Anniversary Day Trip to Tamarind Tree School in Dahanu, Maharashtra on Saturday, 6th April, 2024

The Locavore #DoingGoodThroughFood Anniversary Day Trip

This year, in our continued mission to generate awareness and support for the essential school kitchen at Tamarind Tree, The Locavore invites you to join a remarkable day of discovery, learning, and community engagement at the Tamarind Tree School on the 6th of April, 2024.

We’re thrilled to offer 20 lucky contributors, who choose to either donate or sign up for volunteering,  the chance to accompany us on a day trip to the Tamarind Tree School, showcasing our collective efforts to sustain the school’s kitchen. This immersive experience will not only allow you to witness the impact of these efforts firsthand but also engage you in a unique Skill Exchange Workshop, where every participant, including you, can share and learn new skills in a vibrant, interactive setting.

ITINERARY

  • 6:30 am – 10 am: Air-conditioned bus ride from Kings Circle, Matunga East, Mumbai
  • 10 am – 10:30 am: Community breakfast/snacks
  • 10:30 am – 11:30 am: Village Walk experience
  • 11:30 am – 12:30pm: The Locavore Shuffle and interaction with students
  • 12:30 pm – 1pm: School tour
  • 1 pm – 2pm: Local lunch
  • 2 pm – 3:15pm: Skill Exchange Workshop*
  • 3:15 pm – 3:30 pm: Snacks & drinks
  • 3:30 pm: Departure from Dahanu
  • 8 pm (tentative): Arrival at Kings Circle, Matunga East, Mumbai

*We divide into groups mixing students, staff, and guests. Each person will have the chance to share and teach a simple skill they excel at, whether it’s ‘how to chop an onion properly,’ ‘crafting an effective task list,’ or ‘tips for taking great photographs.’ Each skill session will last approximately 10-15 minutes, offering a rich, interactive learning experience for everyone.

Rules

  • Travel by an air-conditioned bus from Kings Circle, Matunga East, Mumbai to Tamarind Tree School and return
    Breakfast, Lunch and Snacks is included.
  • You have until 11:59 pm IST on Sunday, 31st March 2024 to be eligible for the lucky draw.
  • You will not get any refunds on your donations irrespective of whether you win a spot on the trip or not.
  • All proceeds from this fundraiser will go towards Tamarind Tree Trust.
  • Travel to and from Kings Circle, Matunga East, Mumbai and any additional incidental costs is to be borne by the participant.

Location