Food Drive Poster / Sewa Diwali

As the festival of Diwali approaches on October 20, 2025, homes across America will glow with the warm light of diyas, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil and the renewal of hope.

But for many in the Hindu, Jain, Sikh, and Buddhist communities, Diwali is more than just a celebration—it's an opportunity to embody the timeless principle of seva, or selfless service. At the forefront of this spirit is Sewa Diwali, a nationwide initiative that transforms the joy of the festival into tangible acts of kindness by combating food insecurity through community food drives. 

Rooted in the Dharmic belief that "Service to Humanity is Service to Divinity," Sewa Diwali unites temples, gurudwaras, yoga centers, schools, and spiritual groups to collect non-perishable food items for local pantries, shelters, and those in need. Launched in 2018, this grassroots movement has grown exponentially, reflecting the power of collective compassion.

In its early years, it started modestly but quickly made waves: In 2020, amid the challenges of the pandemic, participants across 26 states collected 294,000 pounds of food, donating to 199 pantries and soup kitchens. By 2021, the initiative shattered records with over 590,000 pounds gathered by 315 organizations, proving that even in tough times, generosity shines brightest. 

The impact has only amplified since. In 2022, Sewa Diwali contributed over half a million pounds, bringing the cumulative total to 1.5 million pounds nationwide. The following year, 2023, saw another milestone with 502,000 pounds donated to more than 200 beneficiary organizations, addressing the stark reality that 10.2% of U.S. households—about 1.4 million—face food insecurity, according to USDA data. And in 2024, the drive reached new heights, collecting over 717,000 pounds through the efforts of 247 temples, schools, and groups. Since inception, Sewa Diwali has delivered over 2 million pounds of food, touching countless lives and fostering interfaith harmony. 

Community participates in Sewa Diwali food drives. / Sewa Diwali

What makes Sewa Diwali truly inspiring is the stories of everyday heroes who step up. In places like Edison, New Jersey, two teenagers spearheaded a school-wide competition at Lincoln Elementary, rallying 45 classrooms to fill bins with donations—proving that youth can lead profound change.

In Katy, Texas, children from the local Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh chapter went door-to-door in their neighborhood, collecting nearly 400 pounds in a single weekend. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Kansas City saw vibrant community drives, while young volunteers like Sachit, Kamla, Jagvi, and Mishika in Ohio enthusiastically gathered contributions from their neighbors. A high school student in Monroe Township, NJ, shared a heartfelt message: "Giving back to the community highlights the role young people can play in spreading kindness and compassion." These acts echo the essence of Diwali—illuminating not just homes, but hearts and lives.

Recognition has followed, with legislative honors like the joint resolution from the New Jersey Assembly applauding Sewa Diwali's efforts. Interfaith collaborations, such as the Interfaith Alliance of Irving donating 1,710 pounds, show how seva bridges divide and build stronger communities. 

In a world where food insecurity affects millions, your contribution can make a real difference. Imagine the joy of knowing your donation helps a family enjoy a nourishing meal during the holidays. Non-perishable items like canned goods, rice, pasta, and peanut butter are easy to give and go a long way. Whether you're organizing a drive at your temple, school, or workplace, or simply dropping off items at a local collection point, every pound counts toward alleviating hunger.

This Diwali, let's commit to more than fireworks and sweets—let's ignite change through service. Join the movement by visiting https://sewadiwali.org/ to learn how to participate, find local events, or start your own drive. Follow @sewadiwalion X for updates, inspiring stories, and ways to get involved. Together, we can turn the light of Diwali into lasting hope for those in need. Donate today—because true prosperity is shared.