Neelam, a known and lovable actor of 80s and 90s Bollywood movies passionately urged gala attendees to open their hearts and wallets in support of the cause
Our Bureau
New York city, NY
The CRY America Gala events took place from April 28 to May 21 in various cities, including Seattle, San Diego, the San Francisco Bay Area, New York City, and Houston. The series successfully raised a total of $1.08 million, which will be allocated to 40 ongoing projects in India and the US by the non-profit.
As the guest of honor for Child Rights and You (CRY) America’s 2023 Gala series, Neelam spearheaded a fundraising effort that resulted in an outstanding achievement, raising over $1 million to support underprivileged children in India and US.
CRY America is a US-based non-profit organization dedicated to supporting projects in India and the US that ensure access to education, healthcare, and protection from child labor, early marriage, and trafficking for underprivileged children. With the support of more than 25,000 donors and over 2,000 volunteers since 2004, CRY America has made a significant impact on the lives of 786,985 children across 5,027 villages and slums through its support of 90 projects in India and the US.
The galas, titled “YOU are the ‘Y’ in CRY,” highlighted the contributions of donors, project partners, and media supporters who have played a crucial role in establishing CRY America as a leading organization advocating for child rights.
Neelam, a known and lovable actor of 80s and 90 Bollywood movies passionately urged gala attendees to open their hearts and wallets in support of the cause. Donors responded generously, heeding her earnest request to “make CRY happy, make the children happy – and make Neelam happy.” In many cases, employers also provided matching funds.
Shefali Sunderlal, CEO of CRY America, acknowledged the dedicated efforts of the Dinner Committees, volunteers, and staff in making the gala series a resounding success. She expressed her gratitude, saying, “Our committed dinner committees went above and beyond this year, tirelessly planning and organizing the galas. Our donors ensured that thousands of children will have a better future through their generosity.”
The New York gala, held at the historic Taj Pierre Hotel, featured an address by New York State Assembly member Jenifer Rajkumar, who presented CRY America with a state proclamation in recognition of its unwavering dedication to child rights.
The gala events ended with energetic and joyous Bollywood-inspired dance performances, symbolizing unity and solidarity in support of child rights. Neelam, before joining the enthusiastic crowd on the dance floor in the Bay Area, summed up the evening’s purpose by emphasizing every child’s right to proper education, nutrition, and the freedom to choose their path in life. She expressed her honor in being part of the fundraisers and urged others to join her in supporting CRY America’s noble cause.
