In a significant step toward nurturing wellbeing in communities, the Mars Wrigley Foundation, in partnership with Smile Foundation, inaugurated transformed Anganwadi Centers (AWCs) in Rajguru Nagar and Moshi, Pune on March 25, 2025. Launched in May 2024, the initiative focuses on improving health, nutrition, and education services for women and young children in underserved communities. The completion of these upgraded centers marks a milestone in Mars Wrigley Foundation’s ongoing efforts to improve lives by strengthening social connections through social infrastructures that create healthier, more resilient communities.
The Anganwadi Transformation Project has revitalized 10 AWCs, impacting 13 centers overall. To date, the initiative has benefited 1,562 individuals, including children, lactating mothers, pregnant women, and adolescent girls, while indirectly supporting 4,660 community members. Key highlights of the project include the establishment of 202 kitchen gardens to enhance nutrition, 30 health and hemoglobin screening camps, and two specialized training programs for frontline workers to strengthen community health support. Additionally, 165 awareness sessions have been conducted to educate and empower the community, alongside the distribution of essential resources and the creation of 11 instructional materials for Anganwadi workers and local families.
“At Mars Wrigley, we are committed to creating lasting change in the communities where we live and work. Our collaboration with Smile Foundation goes beyond infrastructure improvements—it’s about fostering environments that drive better health, education, social connection and overall well-being. The transformed Anganwadi Centers stand as beacons of hope, opportunity, and progress for children and families. The positive response from beneficiaries has been inspiring, reinforcing our belief that collective action leads to sustainable impact. We remain dedicated to initiatives that uplift and empower communities,” said Rohit Sharma, Interim Supply Director, Mars Wrigley India.
“Children are the future of the nation. Hence, child development is an important, comprehensive and collective mission wherein the civil society and the corporate can play a complementary role in strengthening the government’s endeavours. We thank Mars Wrigley and the Mars Wrigley Foundation for their trust and the association for this beautiful initiative,” said Mr. Santanu Mishra, Co-founder & Executive Trustee of Smile Foundation.
The Mars Wrigley Foundation’s Community Connection Grant Program continues to support underserved communities by creating, restoring or improving shared community spaces. Projects aim to address specific local needs, ultimately improving the quality of life for residents. By partnering with local organizations, the Foundation aims to strengthen community ties and improve overall well-being. The inauguration event witnessed participation from the Pune Plant Team, Smile Foundation representatives, government officials, and beneficiaries, highlighting the collective effort to create sustainable community impact.
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