Numma Oonu, the hunger-free city project initiated by District Collector K. Mohammed Y. Safirulla, is set for further expansion.
The project will be supported by 39 more hotels from July 1, while the number of counters for distribution of coupons for free meals has been raised from the existing 13 to 20.
The project that ensures free lunch for the needy was launched on Republic Day last year. In the initial stage, 100 coupons were handed out daily from counters set up at the collectorate and South railway station.
The project was further expanded to cover the entire district during the second phase rolled out on May 11, and the number of coupons distributed soared to 300.
Other than the collectorate and south railway station, coupons are available at Kochi, Kunnathunadu and Paravur taluk offices, community health centres at Vypeen and Malippuram, Aluva, Kothamangalam and Ernakulam KSRTC bus stations, police aid post at Kacherithaazham in Muvattupuzha, Ernakulam north and Angamaly railway stations, and Vyttila Mobility Hub.
From July 1, counters will be opened at Perumbavoor, Muvattupuzha and Kanayannur taluk offices, Mattancherry government hospital, Angamaly and Muvattupuzha KSRTC bus stations, and Government Hospital, Piravom.
The project is supported by Petronet LNG Foundation and the district committee of Kerala Hotel and Restaurants Association (KHRA).
KHRA has identified a couple of hotels near every counter for supporting the project. Coupons will be available between 12 noon and 2 p.m., and lunch will be served against them between 12 noon and 2.30 p.m. The project runs uninterrupted even during holidays.