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Sewa International launches first disaster response vehicle in Texas
The San Antonio-based mobile unit will support faster emergency relief operations and serve as a model for other Sewa chapters across the United States.
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Staff Reporter - Mon, 18, May 2026
- 11:48 EDT
- 29
Disaster Response Vehicle launched — City of San Antonio dignitaries, local chapter leadership, and Sewa national team / Handout
In an effort to improve its disaster response capabilities, Texas-based nonprofit Sewa International launched its first dedicated Disaster Response Vehicle (DRV) in San Antonio. The vehicle was commissioned during Sewa International’s 20th National Conference at Aum Ashram on May 2.
Painted in Sewa’s colors, the trailer bears the organization’s motto, “Service to Humanity is Service to Divinity," and is equipped with emergency response tools including personal protective equipment, shovels, mucking tools, helmets, safety vests, thermal insulated jackets, solar-powered generators, and other supplies commonly needed in the immediate aftermath of floods, storms, and other disasters.
Also Read: Sewa International begins Texas relief after winter storm Fern
The mobile emergency operations unit is capable of being deployed anywhere in Texas within just a few hours and can potentially serve as a model for chapters nationwide, the team behind the effort said.
The unveiling ceremony was led by the Sewa San Antonio chapter leadership, with volunteers dressed in the organization’s signature yellow safety vests and hard hats. National board members and senior leadership also attended the event.
Several public officials from Texas joined the launch ceremony, including State Senator Jose Menendez, State Rep. John Lujan, and San Antonio Council member Ivalis Meza Gonzalez. Representative John Lujan said, “This is a fantastic initiative by Sewa toward strengthening disaster response capabilities in San Antonio and beyond. I encourage Sewa to continue working closely with local disaster response agencies to further enhance our collective emergency response efforts.”
John Lujan, State Representative, addressing the gathering during the DRV launch / Handout
The initiative emerged from lessons learned during the severe flash floods that struck the Texas Hill Country in July 2025. Following those floods, Sewa mobilized volunteers from multiple cities to assist with relief and recovery efforts, working alongside the Texas Division of Emergency Management and Volunteer Organizations Active in Disaster. According to the organization, more than 200 volunteers contributed over 3,000 service hours in the recovery effort.
Sewa officials said that experience highlighted the need for a dedicated mobile response center that could streamline logistics and improve deployment speed in future emergencies.
“The first 72 hours after a disaster are critical, making advance preparedness essential for an effective volunteer response,” said Vinayak Astekar, associate director for disaster recovery at Sewa International. “This fully equipped, air-conditioned DRV will support volunteers by storing and dispensing essential gear while also serving as a mobile Sewa disaster control center. While we hope it is never needed, staying prepared is vital.”
Founded in 2003, Sewa International has grown to 46 chapters across the United States and works with more than 5,000 volunteers. The organization said it has responded to 14 disasters in the United States and 36 international disasters, providing rescue, relief, rehabilitation, and long-term recovery assistance.
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