Shailesh Vara MP recently met with Dr Koneru Prasad, Founder of Health and Education For All (HEAL) which is based in Peterborough.

The charity was founded in the UK in 1992 and built upon previous work by Dr Prasad in India during the 1960s which included setting up a medical centre for slum dwellers, establishing book-banks, providing midday meals for poor students and building a rehabilitation centre for people who were either visually impaired or disabled.

Efforts have also been made to establish sister-charities overseas with organisations present in India, the USA, Australia and Spain. The concept of the charity is unique in that it is run entirely by volunteers which means there are no administration costs. All donations therefore directly benefit the charity’s projects.

HEAL Paradise Village is the latest project in India which will eventually house 1000 children including orphans and some of the most vulnerable and uncared for children in India. The first phase of the build is complete with the second phase due to be completed in 2018.

Following the meeting, Mr Vara said:

“Dr Prasad is an inspiration.

His work over many years has saved countless lives and has given some of the poorest members of Indian society the means to escape poverty and lead fulfilling lives.

The charity goes from strength-to-strength and HEAL’s army of volunteers means that 100% of donations go directly to those most in need. I wish Dr Prasad and HEAL the very best for the future.”

Dr Koneru Prasad commented:

"It was very nice to meet our delightful MP, Shailesh Vara, who is very interested in HEAL's work. He is keen to help in any way possible to promote education for children from poor families and I am looking forward to working with him"

Photo: Mr Vara is pictured with Dr Koneru Prasad and his wife Dr Usha Prasad.