A student-led initiative fighting hunger among Pune’s students, so that no student has to choose between education and nutrition.
It started with one visit to a government medical college, and students quietly skipping meals.
HopeMeals was founded in 2025 by a Class 11 student after visiting a government medical college and witnessing several medical students skipping meals due to financial constraints.
Disturbed by the impact of hunger on students’ health and academic performance, he envisioned a solution that would ensure regular access to nutritious food without compromising the students’ dignity.
This led to the creation of HopeMeals, which allows approved students to receive canteen meals discreetly and free of cost. Initially launched as a pilot project at one college, the initiative now works with B.J. Medical College, and supports students from every background.
HopeMeals runs in association with A.S. Foundation, which verifies applications with us and issues donation receipts.
These principles guide every decision, from who we support to how we spend a rupee.
We act with empathy and understanding, recognizing the dignity of every student.
We operate with transparency and accountability in all our actions and decisions.
We try to serve all students in need, regardless of background, gender, or discipline.
We measure our success by the tangible difference we make in students' lives.
We prioritize making balanced, nutritious meals that support overall wellbeing available to all students.
We aim to build lasting solutions that can continue to serve students for years to come.
The dedicated team members behind HopeMeals who work to make our mission a reality.
Founder & Change Maker
Safal Mutha is an 11th-grade STEM student, a Harvard Summer School Alumnus and the Founder & Hope Architect of HopeMeals. Guided by empathy and curiosity, he strives to use technology to make education and nutrition accessible to every student in need.
Advisory Contributor & Legal Enthusiast
Jose Vela is an 11th-grade law student from the United States and a Harvard Summer School alumnus. He is passionate about using legal knowledge to promote fairness, compassion, and positive change in society.
We are always looking for volunteers to help with distribution, awareness, fundraising and technology.
A little more about where HopeMeals came from.
Something else? Write to contact@hopemeals.org
HopeMeals was founded in 2025 by Safal Mutha, a Class 11 student, after he visited a government medical college and saw students skipping meals because of financial constraints.
HopeMeals works in association with A.S. Foundation, which issues the 80G tax receipts for donations made in INR.
