In 1970, a group of young students recognized the urgent needs of their fellow students within their school and the nearby community. These needs primarily revolved around the lack of books and funds for education. In response, these students decided to form a voluntary organization called the ‘FRIENDS HELPING CLUB.’ This initiative began with their contribution of books, uniforms, and school fees to support underprivileged students. Over time, the scope of their efforts expanded beyond just books, encompassing areas such as health and immunization.
Their projects, including initiatives like Free Pulse Polio, Baby Immunization, Baby Health Checkups, and Oxygen Cylinder Supply, have been serving the community for more than 37 years. Particularly noteworthy are the Club’s Eye Donation and Blood Donation projects, which have left a significant mark in Berhampur’s service history.
From 1970 to 2002, the club successfully operated its social service activities and projects at various locations. However, in 2002, the club consolidated its efforts to focus on the Maternity and Child Welfare Centre at Giri Market, Berhampur. This shift was made possible through the kind cooperation of Dr. Satish Kumar Patnaik, the Secretary of the centre. Dr. Patnaik recognized and appreciated the selfless service provided by the club, which led to the club’s administrative office being established at the centre’s premises. This allowed the club to conduct its permanent projects there.
The club’s dedication and commitment impressed the Maternity and Child Welfare Centre, leading to the allocation of a vacant site within their compound for the construction of a community service hall. Under the leadership of Frd. S. Durga Prasad and with the support of Frd. T. Kameswar Rao, the club’s permanent office named SNEHAM was inaugurated in 2006. Since then, the club has significantly expanded its operations, benefiting numerous children and mothers.
After three years of planning, the Governing Body, in agreement with proposals from the General Body, initiated efforts to construct the ‘Friends Helping Club Community Service Hall’ on the allocated vacant site. The project came to fruition with the foundation stone being laid on December 14, 2012, by the Hon’ble Mayor of Berhampur Municipal Corporation, Sri Siba Sankar Das, in the presence of Frd. Dr. Satish Kumar Patnaik, the Hon’ble Secretary of MCW Centre. This event marked the realization of a long-held dream for the club’s members.