Blog, Community Buzz
Since 2017, I have had the honor of supporting Friends For Cause Foundation (FFCF), an organization dedicated to restoring the sight of underprivileged individuals in rural India through free eye camps. These camps provide life-changing cataract surgeries to those in need, ensuring that people who would otherwise not have access to treatment can regain their vision—and, in many cases, their independence.
The foundation, led by Yogesh Bhatia, has been running these camps for years, with Yogesh ji himself dedicating months of his time each year to travel to India and oversee this vital work. His passion and commitment are a driving force behind the success of these initiatives, and it’s been heartening to see how many lives have been touched by the organization’s efforts.
How Can You Help?
This year, FFCF is hosting its annual fundraiser on October 26, 2024, at Fraserview Banquet Hall in Vancouver, and I’m inviting the entire Vancouver Indian community to come together in support of this worthy cause.
What makes this event even more impactful is the fact that just $50 is enough to cover the cost of one cataract surgery. That means one ticket purchase can directly help restore sight to one individual. It’s a beautiful way to make a tangible difference in someone’s life.
Why This Matters
Cataract blindness is one of the leading causes of vision loss in India, particularly in rural areas where medical resources are scarce and expensive. For many, a simple procedure can reverse years of blindness, but without access to affordable healthcare, these surgeries remain out of reach. FFCF’s eye camps bring this critical care to those who need it most, and your support can help continue this mission.
The people who benefit from these surgeries are often elderly, and restoring their vision helps them regain their autonomy, allowing them to live with dignity. For others, cataract surgery can mean the ability to work, support their families, and lead fulfilling lives once again. The impact of each surgery extends beyond just the individual—it strengthens families and communities.
Event Details:
️ Date: October 26, 2024
Venue: Fraserview Banquet Hall, Vancouver
Ticket Price: $50 (The cost to restore one person’s vision)
What to Expect: A night of community, celebration, and hope. Enjoy an evening with like-minded individuals committed to making a difference, while learning more about the ongoing work of FFCF.
Let’s Come Together
I encourage the Vancouver Indian Community to join us at this event and become part of a movement that’s changing lives. By purchasing a ticket, you’ll not only enjoy a meaningful evening but also give the gift of sight to someone in need.
Get Your Tickets Today
If you’re unable to attend but still want to support the cause, please consider making a donation. Every contribution, big or small, makes an impact.
Together, let’s help make this year’s fundraiser a success and continue the work of bringing hope, light, and vision to those who need it most.
For tickets and more information, please visit zeffy.com
Blog, Community Buzz
October-November is a busy time for the Vancouver Indian Community with respect to events. Events such as Navratri Garba, Durga Puja, Diwali take place around this time of the year. I am proudly supporting some of the following community events that you would like to attend
The Joy of Giving – Annual Charity Dinner by Friends For Cause Foundation (FFCF)
This year The Joy of Giving annual charity dinner is taking place on October 13, 2023. FFCF runs organizes free eye camps and offer free eye surgeries to underprivileged people in rural India. Read more about the event here
Bharat Utsav 2023 by BKSP
Bharatiya Kala Evam Sahitya Parishad (BKSP) brings its annual signature event Bharat Utsav on October 14, 2023. The event highlights the rich and varied culture of India and showcases the local talent from the Vancouver Indian Community. Read more about this event here
Navratri Garba 2023 by CDACC
Canadian Desi Arts and Cultural Club (CDACC) brings Raas Garba Ramzat this year, a two day event on October 20 & October 21, 2023. Read more about this event here
Sharod Utsab / Sharodotsav / Durga Puja by LMBCS
Sharodotsav or Durga Puja by Lower Mainland Bengali Cultural Society (LMBCS) is a Free event for the entire community happening on October 20 to October 22, 2023. Read more about it here
Diwali Celebration in Port Coquitlam
City of Port Coquitlam (PoCo) having its first culturally focused and inclusive Diwali Celebration on November 4, 2023. It is a day-long event including activities for kids & seniors, dance workshops for everybody and beautiful musical, instrumental and cultural performances, standing exhibits on Indian history and saree parades. Read more about this event here
Neeraj Kumar Real Estate Team always supports selective community based events in Greater Vancouver Area. Connect with Neeraj Kumar if you are looking for support in organizing an event for the community.
Blog, Community Buzz
I have been supporting Friends For Cause Foundation, Canada since 2017 for their initiative of helping the underprivileged population in Rural India.
The Joy of Giving is an annual Charity Dinner organized by Friends For Cause Foundation (FFCF). The founder of FFCF, Yogesh Bhatia, visits India every year to carry out his passion for the Gift a Sight Project. The project started with the tragedy of losing his brother. He makes sure that he does this work very diligently and in process follows all medical guidelines – from picking out people on the streets to get their vision tested, to having the surgeries done on those who require it. It is all planned and executed under co-operations of his friends and the guidance of his mentors and support of local NGOs.
This year charity dinner is taking place at Grand Empire Banquet Hall, Surrey on October 26, 2024. Please visit Zeffy.com to buy tickets for the charity dinner online. If you would like to donate, or need more information, please contact Yogesh Bhatia at 604-366-6942
About The Blindness Issue in India:
India is the home of the world’s largest number of blind people, 75% of these are cases of avoidable blindness. The prime cause of blindness is unawareness of several eye diseases and refractive errors. Early detection of which can not only prevent blindness, but can also vastly improve the performance and the quality of life of the individual (be it a student, a professional, a home maker or a retired personnel).
Buy Tickets For 2024 Fundraiser
