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Neighbor News

Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh's (HSS) food drive for SEWA Diwali

A campaign motivated by selfless service (SEWA) to humanity on occasion of Diwali festival aligning with Hindu values

Kids participating in SEWA Diwali food drive campaign outside grocery store in Ellicott City, MD
Kids participating in SEWA Diwali food drive campaign outside grocery store in Ellicott City, MD

Diwali, the festival of lights, is celebrated by Hindus around the world as a time of joy, togetherness, and bringing light into others lives. Typically observed in October or November, just before Thanksgiving, Diwali embodies the spirit of giving and community service.

In keeping with this spirit, Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS) chapters nationwide organize collection drives and mobilize volunteers to make a positive impact on society. Each year, the HSS Maryland Chapter hosts a food drive to gather and distribute essential items such as food and supplies to those in need, reflecting the Hindu value of Sewa (selfless service).
HSS Maryland Chapter partnered with several local Hindu organizations to organize food drives in Ellicott City, Frederick, and Gaithersburg. Volunteers, including many children, enthusiastically participated by campaigning outside grocery stores and conducting door-to-door outreach. Their collective efforts resulted in the collection of 2,500 pounds of food and essential supplies, which were donated to the local non-profit Friends of Sparsh and The Manna Food Center.
The Sewa Diwali campaign exemplifies the values of harmony, compassion, and collective well-being, ensuring that the festival of lights brightens lives within the community and beyond.

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