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Indian community steps up in wake of hurricane Beryl's devastation
The Indian community is providing crucial aid not only to fellow Indians but also to the wider American community.
A drone view shows a flooded area, in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl, in Houston, Texas, U.S. July 8, 2024, in this screen grab taken from a social media video. / @cjblain10 via X/via REUTERS
The Indian community in Houston has stepped up to provide aid and take part in relief efforts in the region that was majorly affected by Hurricane Beryl, a Category 1 hurricane, that unleashed its fury on Texas.
With wind speeds ranging between 80 and 100 miles per hour, Beryl left behind a trail of widespread destruction, causing significant property damage and crippling the electrical infrastructure in Houston and its surrounding areas. Over 2 million residents were plunged into darkness, facing extreme July Texas heat and suffocating humidity without power—a life-threatening situation for many. With such extensive damage, repair crews have estimated that it will take several days to restore power and connectivity to the affected areas.
In such a situation, the Indian community is providing crucial aid not only to fellow Indians but also to the wider American community. Their efforts have demonstrated the true spirit of unity and compassion, proving once again that in the face of adversity, humanity prevails.
Sewa International, known for its dedication to humanitarian causes, was at the forefront of the relief efforts even before Beryl made landfall. Anticipating the storm's impact, the organization proactively communicated with the community, assuring readiness to address any non-medical needs. As soon as the hurricane hit, Sewa International coordinated with regional organizations and first responders, swiftly setting up a helpline and mobilizing resources to provide immediate relief.
After the hurricane, Sewa International delivered water to several affected areas and, in collaboration with the Red Cross, delivered over 200 dinner packs to a senior living facility left powerless and in dire need of meals, ensuring the residents received much-needed sustenance.
Volunteers from BAPS Charities united to serve the storm-hit area of Fort Bend County. Recognizing the urgent need for hot meals, they prepared and delivered hot pizzas to the Fort Bend Emergency Response Centers, providing comfort and sustenance to many individuals on the front lines of the disaster response, including the Stafford and Sugarland Police Departments. At the local BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Houston, TX, over 600 people were served hot rice, lentils, rotis, and pasta during lunch and dinner.
Despite running on generators themselves, BAPS is operating cooling centers to provide relief to people reeling under the heat wave. “We stand in solidarity with all the residents and officials working to recover and rebuild after the storm," said volunteer Jaladhi Patel.
ISKCON Houston, renowned for its commitment to service, played a vital role in the aftermath of the hurricane. Leveraging Govinda’s restaurant, ISKCON served over 300 free vegetarian meals to local neighbors and the community at large. Despite not having power restored, ISKCON is running on generators and has opened its doors from 4:30 am to 9:30 pm, offering a cool and safe place for those affected by the storm to find respite.
Vadtal Dham Houston extended its services by offering vegetarian tiffin seva and prasad (dinner) to those in need. Their support ensured that many had access to nutritious meals during this crisis, bringing a semblance of normalcy to affected families.
Understanding the critical need for power and connectivity, VPSS opened Vallabh Hall from noon until 8:00 pm, providing an air-conditioned space with lights and internet access for those without power at home. VPSS also organized a satvik dinner ensuring that everyone who sought refuge could enjoy a wholesome meal.
Hindus of Greater Houston vice president, Hemant Jhadav, coordinated with all temples and organizations to organize relief efforts. Hari Priya, the president of Young Hindus of Greater Houston, expressed her amazement at the overwhelming outpouring of support and enthusiasm from the Hindu youth. "It surpassed even my wildest expectations," she said, noting the readiness and willingness of the youth to help the community in this dire time of need.
It is noteworthy that the majority of the volunteers who came together to help have full-time jobs.
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