Tirukkural-On Virtue-Social Cooperation-Kural 218

Even when the resources are limited those who know their duty,Will not shrink from their efforts of social co-operation.

The men of virtue, who have a clear understanding of their functions, as trustees of the society around them, will not fail in their socially beneficial duties because of straitened circumstances. They will continue to give even if it hurts them.

The following verse of Naladiar echoes the same sentiments:

"Illaa idathum iyanra alavinaal
Ulla idampoar peridhu vandhu mellak
Kodaiyoadu pattagunanudai maandharku
Adaiyaavaam aandaik kadhavu"

(Naaladi-91)