BAPS Charities Respond to Hurricane Beryl Relief Efforts
Houston: On July 8, Hurricane Beryl made landfall on the Texas coast as a Category 1 hurricane, bringing wind gusts of up to 90 mph and heavy rainfall. The storm caused significant damage, including widespread power outages throughout the Houston area, leaving millions of residents without electricity.
Right: BAPS Charities delivers a hot meal to the Fort Bend Emergency Response Center. At center is Ft Bend County Judge K.P. George.
Far Right: BAPS Charities served over 600 meals at the mandir.
Government officials in Houston, Harris County, Fort Bend County, Galveston, Montgomery County, and surrounding areas have been working tirelessly to aid in recovery efforts. Amid these challenging times, BAPS Charities has stepped up to provide muchneeded support to those affected by the storm.
Volunteers from BAPS Charities came together to serve the stormhit area of Fort Bend County. Recognizing the urgent need for hot meals, volunteers prepared and delivered hot pizzas to the Fort Bend Emergency Response Centers. This act of kindness and service provided comfort and sustenance to many individuals working on the front lines of the disaster response.
Over 600 people were served hot rice, lentils, and rotis along with pasta during lunch and dinner at the local BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Houston, TX.
“BAPS Charities is committed to serving the community, especially in times of crisis,” said volunteer Jaladhi Patel. “Our volunteers are dedicated to providing immediate relief and support to those affected by Hurricane Beryl. We stand in solidarity with all the residents and officials working to recover and rebuild after the storm.”
BAPS Charities volunteers continued the efforts by delivering hot meals to the Stafford Police Department.
BAPS Charities continues to monitor the situation and is prepared to offer additional assistance as needed. The organization encourages everyone in the affected areas to stay safe and follow the guidance of local authorities.
VFS Global Launches Seattle and Bellevue Centers for India Visa, OCI, Passport Services TRAVEL
seattle: As part of its expanding service network for the Government of India, VFS Global has launched the Seattle center to manage visa, Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI), passport application, renunciation of Indian citizenship and Global Entry Program (GEP). Additionally, VFS will operate the Bellevue center, to extend assistance for members of the Indian community.
The VFS office location in Seattle is at Suite 240, 3131 Elliot Avenue, Seattle 98131. The VFS Drop Off location in Bellevue is at Suite 100, 1400 112th Ave SE, Bellevue, WA 98004
The Seattle Center will be equipped with world-class facilities aimed at providing an easily accessible and a superior application experience for customers and will make the application process more convenient for travellers. These services are expected to benefit the nearly half millionstrong Indian diaspora community in the consular jurisdiction of the Indian Consulate in Seattle, which covers the Nine Pacific North Western States of Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Washington and Wyoming. Customers can visit https://indiainseattle.gov. in/ for the latest information on the services offered.
Prakash Gupta, Consul General of India in Seattle, said, “The opening of the Indian Consulate in Seattle is a reflection of Government of India’s strong commitment to deepen our relations with Pacific North Western states of USA and through the opening of these new visa application centers (VAC) in Seattle and Bellevue, we hope to ensure for all consular applicants a more convenient experience to adequately prepare their travel to India.”
These spacious facilities equipped with modern amenities and services will have well-trained customer service representatives to assist visa applicants at every step. To enhance customer experience further, India visa and consular applicants get dedicated callcenter support from 8:30AM to
5:30PM, Monday to Friday, along with email and Web Chatbot support for quick query resolution.
Amit Kumar Sharma, Head – Americas, VFS Global, said, “VFS Global shares a long-standing relationship with the Government of India since 2008 and we are excited to expand our partnership further. The new center in Seattle and Bellevue, United States of America will play a crucial role in effectively catering to the growing demand for visa and consular services to India.”
VFS Global is the first outsourced visa services partner of the Ministry of External Affairs (India) and has been serving the Government of India since 2008. In the United States of America, VFS Global provides passport, visa and consular services on behalf of the Embassy and Consulates of India located across the country since 2020. At present, VFS Global manages 52 Passport, Visa and Consular Services Application Centres for the Government of India in 13 countries: Australia, Belgium, France, Iraq, The Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Switzerland, Thailand, the United States of America, and the United Kingdom.
About VFS Global
As the world’s leading outsourcing and technology service specialist, VFS Global embraces technological innovation including Generative AI to support governments and diplomatic missions worldwide. The company manages non-judgmental and administrative tasks related to applications for visa, passport, and consular services for its client governments, increasing productivity and enabling them to focus entirely on the critical task of assessment. With a responsible approach to technology development, adoption and integration, the company prioritizes ethical practices and sustainability while serving as the trusted partner to 68 client governments. Operating over 3,400 Application Centers in 151 coun-
tries, VFS Global has efficiently processed more than 290 million applications since 2001.
Headquartered in Zurich and
Dubai and backed by majority shareholder Blackstone, along with the Swiss-based Kuoni and Hugentobler Foundation and EQT, VFS Global is committed to
creating value for all stakeholders and leading in responsible, innovative solutions making government services more effective and efficient.
CGI India Seattle Prakash Gupta, Mayor of Seattle Bruce Harell and State Rep Vandan Slatter at the inauguration of the India Consular Center in Seattle
CGI India Seattle Prakash Gupta addressing the diaspora community at the inauguration of India Consular Center in Seattle
Sewa International Steps in to Help Hurricane Beryl Victims
Houston: With phones ringing every minute, Sewa International volunteers have responded to calls for help across Houston as Hurricane Beryl’s vast impact is felt. Beryl, which made landfall on the Texas coast on July 8, has killed 13, affected two million people, and caused an estimated $3.3 billion in damages.
In the latest food drive on July 14, Sewa and seven other organizations packed and distributed 1000+ hot meals to people in Channelview, Texas, at Praise Christian Church.
“There is a lot more work to be done, and a lot more people to be reached, and any support from the community will be appreciated,” said Arun Kankani, President, Sewa International, himself a Houstonian, alluding to the Facebook fundraising campaign by Sewa, as well as donors’ ability to contribute through the Sewa website.
Sewa volunteers began relief activities soon after the hurricane made landfall and as high winds destroyed many roofs and fences, received calls from people stranded without power and food.
Sewa volunteers have served 200 meals to a senior living community in Hollyoaks, Harris County and to over 150 students in an apartment complex in Houston which had lost power.
“Sewa has been serving people worldwide during disasters and many Houston residents remem-
ber our relief efforts and rebuilding work during Hurricane Harvey in 2017. Beryl, a category one hurricane, has caused extensive damage, and I appeal to people to donate to Sewa’s ‘Together for Texas’ campaign, to help Houston recover,” said Arun Kankani.
A call from Brooks Spangler, the Community Disaster Program Manager at the American Red
If Hurricane Beryl has impacted you, here are some important resources to help you
Cooling and Distribution Center: Response | Houston OEM
The Houston Office of Emergency Management has set up cooling and distribution centers to support residents during extreme heat. These centers provide much-needed relief and essential resources.
For more information, visit: https://www.houstonoem.org/pages/ response
Unemployment Assistance: Hurricane Beryl disaster unemployment assistance
If you cannot work due to damage from Hurricane Beryl, you may be eligible for unemployment. To apply visit the unemployment website at https://apps.twc.texas.gov/UBS/security/logon.do or call 1(800)393-6631.
Bread of Life Distribution Drive: Bread of Life
Bread of Life in downtown Houston is hosting a drive-thru distribution event on Saturday, July 20, from 8 a.m. to noon, as part of its third annual All-In Back-to-School Event at St. John’s United Methodist Church located at 2019 Crawford St. For information: Call 832.939.747 or email info@breadof hi lifeinc.org.
FEMA Individual Assistance Approved FEMA has approved our request for individual assistance. Residents can get help with temporary housing, emergency home repairs, personal property losses, disaster legal services, disaster unemployment assistance, and related medical, dental, and funeral expenses. To apply for FEMA disaster assistance, visit disasterassistance.gov or call 800-621-3362.
Cross of Georgia, informed Sewa International about the situation at the Hollyoak retirement center. Within a few hours, Sewa volunteers delivered the hot meals donated by Maharaja Bhog, a restaurant and food vendor in Houston.
Sewa volunteers also served meals to over 150 graduate students of the University of Houston, living in an apartment complex.
The students did not have electricity since July 8, could not go out to get food, and were suffering from heat-related stress. Within hours, after receiving a call from the Consulate General of India, Houston, Sewa volunteers served meals and offered a two-night accommodation with power for some students.
Sewa volunteers delivered more than 120 gallons of water to Rosharon in Brazoria County, Texas. The community was unable to access clean drinking water and lacked power.
“We began our efforts a day before the storm by sharing nonemergency phone lines with the
community. We gathered emergency supplies and prepared families to ensure their vehicles and homes were ready for the storm. During the storm, we alerted residents to evacuate, avoid damaged buildings and power lines, and consume safe water and food,” Kankani said.
“Sewa volunteers are working on reaching out to families without power, delivering ice to cope with the heat, and sharing information on roofing contractors and cooling shelters. I thank the many Sewa volunteers who are helping others despite facing challenges at their homes like power outages and roof leaks,” Kankani said.
Sewa is a member of the Texas Gulf Coast Regional Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (TGCRVOAD) and other regional groups. Sewa continues to respond to the needs of the Greater Houston Community.
Recap of Community Outreach to Help in Relief Efforts
By Kapil sHarma
Houston: In these trying times, the Indian community in Houston has emerged as a beacon of hope and resilience, providing crucial aid not only to fellow Indians but also to the wider American community. Here’s a recap of some efforts.
Sewa International at the forefront of the relief efforts even before Beryl made landfall. Anticipating the storm’s impact, Seva International proactively communicated with the community, assuring readiness to address any nonmedical needs. (See story above)
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, including Stafford and Sugar Land Police Departments. At the local BAPS Shri
Swaminarayan Mandir in Houston, over 600 people were served hot meals during lunch and dinner. (See story on page 2)
ISKCON Houston played a vital role in the aftermath of the hurricane. Leveraging Govinda’s restaurant, ISKCON served over 300 free vegetarian meals on Monday and Tuesday to local neighbors and the community at large. Despite power outages, 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.
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.
Understanding the critical need for power and connectivity, VPSS opened Vallabh Hall from noon
until 8 pm, providing an air-conditioned space with lights and internet access for those without power at home. VPSS also organized a satvik dinner around 6:00 pm, ensuring that everyone who sought refuge could enjoy a wholesome meal.
Haripriya Sundar, President of Young Hindus of Greater Houston, expressed amazement at the overwhelming support 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.
Sewa International volunteers fanned out across the region to provide food, water and even accommodations to people stranded due to Hurricane Beryl.
CENTRAL TEXAS
HC4A 12th Annual School Supplies Packing Event in Austin
austin: Central Texas schools struggle with funding, often leaving kids without essential supplies for success. School supplies are crucial not just for education, but for fostering equality and organization among students. Each year, HC4A steps up to meet this need, ensuring thousands of Texas school children start their school year right. However, with new families continuously facing hardships, the demand for supplies remains persistent.
HC4A and Shalom Austin, with the support of the City of Austin’s “We All Belong” initiative, are excited to announce the 12th Annual School Supplies Packing Event. This initiative aims to foster community unity and provide critical resources.
Thanks to the success of our “Bollywood Meets Borscht Belt” (BMBB) fundraiser this April, where HC4A raised over $40,000, and the “We All Belong” grant, we can now provide school supplies for more than 1,500 homeless students.
BMBB also promoted multicultural togetherness in a spirit of unity and mutual support to foster an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and connected.
The lineup of speakers included Alison Alter, Council Member; Rabbi Daniel Septimus, CEO of Shalom Austin; Dr. Robert Sor-
mani, Superintendent, Manor ISD and Will Williams, First Sergeant, USA (Ret) & Founder, Share the Will Foundation
Most importantly, the guests heard directly from an immigrant family, beneficiaries of the school supplies drive, for a firsthand account of how your support makes a difference.
Seeing Jewish, Hindu, and African American communities share the stage at the event was a rare and inspiring moment of unity, showcasing how diverse cultures can come together for a common purpose. This collaboration highlights the importance of inclusivity and mutual support, demonstrating that regardless of our backgrounds, we all have a role to play in supporting education for low-income children. It’s a powerful reminder that when we unite for the greater good, we can break down barriers and create lasting positive impacts in our communities.
This year, we set out with a lofty goal – to support over 1,600 children with essential school supplies at a School Supplies Packing Event on August 4 at the Dell Jewish Community Center – Shalom; 7300 Hart Lane in Austin. It is an all-day event with 2–3-hour volunteer slots, depending on the task selected. Please use the sign up to register: https://bit.ly/3wOItEt
Volunteers of all ages (children aged 8+ welcome) are encour-
aged to participate. Please sign up for an available slot to help us pack the school supplies. Each slot has specific requirements, so read carefully to ensure you can fulfill those duties. Some tasks may require heavy lifting.
Since 2010, HC4A has sup-
ported Independent School Districts (ISDs) in Austin, Manor, Bastrop, Del Valle, and Houston. Additionally, HC4A has partnered with and supported the following organizations: African American Youth Harvest Foundation; Veterans through Share the Will and
Hero’s Night Out; Asian Family Support Service; Dove Springs Proud; Refugee Services of Texas; Greater Love Baptist Church and Libraries with Books. For more information, contact Pankil Matalia at pankil@hc4a. org or call 512-689-4811.
Barreled by Hurricane Beryl!!
By BHupinder singH
Houston: Hurricane Beryl started lashing the Houston area on Sunday, July 7, 2024, evening. That whole night we experienced heavy pounding of rain and gushing wind. Monday morning July 8 around 5 AM we lost electricity, cellular phone service and internet connectivity. Thankfully we did not lose the water or gas connection. Knocked out without these amenities the forced downtime was not a welcome guest. Earlier, hurricane Beryl had left a devastating legacy behind in Barbados, Caribbean and in the Yucatan. With sweat dripping down our brows the challenge was how to stay calm, without life’s usual props, which runs on electricity and internet connectivity. One easy relief from this sweltering, muggy weather was to escape away from the bandwidth of the hurricane that came barreling down on us. But the authorities had issued a directive not to leave homes from midnight till midday Monday, so enduring was the only option. With almost 2.7 million losing power the restoration efforts were going to be daunting, and our wait was going to be longer.
Monday morning lashing rains and the howling winds were the only show to watch, which continued till 2 PM. Afterwords the wind and rain subsided a little, then be-
coming intermittent. Around 3 PM, we started collecting all the fallen branches and leaves from the front yard. The bushes and plants of Plumeria and Roses had burrows around their main trunks as if angry Beryl was forcefully trying to uproot them. After taking care of those we headed to the backyard and were shocked to see our big Neem tree knocked out. Considering that we were in the eye of the storm and the landfall was only 4 miles away, was our only consolation. Now we have to wait for a certain normalcy to return before we can hire someone to saw off the tree and haul it away.
Scorching Sun came out by 5 PM making working outside impossible. Around 6:30 PM, I decided to go for a walk which felt like a hot sauna bath. I saw every place littered with loose objects, tree branches, water-meter covers, street signs, broken fences, debris and roof shingles etc. Seeing a dead rabbit in a jumping pose, I could not resist wondering how those creatures were responding to such a natural calamity, while we were staying indoors in our cozy houses and complaining about power and internet outages. Such devastation I had only seen on TV before, but now I had witnessed it. Showering after the walk felt like a necessity, and a ritual to express our thanks for the availability of
running water.
Dinner had to be taken care of before sunset. Darkness becomes the dreaded time, making the lives of creatures of comfort without electricity unbearable. Hitting the bed early becomes the rallying call, but the bed feels like a hot plate in a hot oven like bedroom, the night of “Sleepless in Houston”.
In the meantime, the National Weather Service had placed the Gulf Coast region on the heat advisory with heat index expected to reach around 106oF. After two days of this excruciating punishment, we were yearning back for our “normal” life of comforts. Driving a car feels like a necessity to charge our dead cell phones, as well as to cool the body. The long lines at the gas stations acts as a reminder that the car is a luxury taken for granted. To cool off we have three options: Drive aimlessly in the car with ac on; take a shower, provided running water is available or escape to place with power, for respite, and a restful sleep. The clock was still clicking, sweat was still dripping, and the endless wait for power continued. Now the inhouse air was feeling hotter than the outside hot air. So, we opened the front and back doors to get some air circulation going. Fortunately, our friends invited us to spend the night in their house, as they had the power back.
That was a very welcome relief to enjoy dinner in lights with AC running. The sleep with AC blasting and weighted blanket on, felt good. Now the body is charged and ready for Thursday’s gruel. Thursday July 11, another day started without power. Morning drifted away slowly, by 1 PM clouds appeared providing a respite to fi-
nally sit outside. Rain showers started around 2 PM bringing a welcome relief. Finally, at 3 PM we had the power back it felt like big relief, we had survived Beryl. But, there are still over a million without power and many houses and businesses will take months before they are habitable and functioning.
A blown down Neem tree
INNER HEALING
The JKYog Houston chapter is honored to welcome Swami Mukundananda for a 2 week-long Life Transformation Program from August 10 to 23, 2024.
Week 1 Topic: Power of Thoughts; Aug 10 to 16, 2024.
6:45 PM to 9 PM Venue: India House, 8888 W Belfort Ave, Houston, TX 77031
Week 2 Topic: Bhagavad Gita for Everyday Living; Aug 17 to 23. 6:45 PM to 9 PM
Venue: Sri Sharadamba Temple, SVBF South 10315 Clodine Road, Richmond, TX 77407.
The program is FREE, and dinner Prasadam is served every evening at the conclusion of the program. Kindly do the Free Registration at www. JKYog.org/Houston. Contact Lata Srivatsan: 281-630-5982 or Chaya Lonakadi 281-7804877
Indo American News
Founder: dr. K.l. sindwani
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editor: pramod KulKarni
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Swami Mukundananda to Visit Houston August 10 - 23
Houston: His Holiness Swami Mukundananda will be visiting Houston to conduct the Life Transformation Program (LTP) starting from August 10.
LTP offers a comprehensive approach to personal growth and empowerment, centered around this year’s theme, “The Power of Thoughts,” inspired by Swamiji’s bestselling book and the Bhagavad Gita - The Song of God.
Swami Mukundananda is a worldrenowned spiritual teacher from India and an international authority on mind management. He earned his degrees from prestigious IIT Delhi and IIM Kolkata. He was employed by a multinational firm for a short while, then renounced a promising career to embrace monkhood at the age of 23.
He studied Vedic Scriptures under the tutelage of Jagadguru Shri Kripaluji Maharaj for several years. For almost four decades now, Swami Mukundananda has been sharing his vast knowledge through his
books, lectures, life transformation programs and Retreats. Swamiji has graced prestigious institutions including Amazon, Apple, Google, Microsoft, Intel, Oracle, United Nations, MIT, Yale University, and Stanford University, captivating audiences worldwide.
Swamiji meets hundreds, even thousands, of people each week from all walks of life. His steadfast positivity exudes hope, clarity and a sense of purpose for those who connect with him. He has deeply affected the lives of millions of people who have been drawn to his profound integrity, charismatic personality, and passion to serve.
Swamiji’s lectures are in-depth yet humorous, his arguments logical and well laid out, and his advice is practical. His lectures on social media platforms are loved and followed by millions worldwide. Swamiji divides his time between India and the USA.
While Swamiji’s wisdom reso-
nates with millions online, the opportunity to hear him in person is rare. Don’t miss this chance to meet him, receive his guidance, and explore pathways to mental, physical, and spiritual enrichment. JKYog’s Life Transformation Programs are open to all, regardless of age or background, and are offered Free of cost. Join the transformative experience!
Indian Workers Freed From ‘Slavery’ in Italy
VERONA, ITALY: The exploitation of farmhands – both Italian and migrant - in Italy is a wellknown issue
Dozens of Indian farm laborers have been freed from slave-like working conditions in northern Italy, police have said.
The 33 workers were lured to Italy on the promise of jobs and a better future by two fellow Indian nationals, police say.
But instead, they were allegedly forced to work more than 10 hours a day, seven days a week for a tiny wage which was used to pay off debts to the alleged gangmasters.
The two men - who were found with approximately $545,300have been arrested.
The exploitation of farmhands –both Italian and migrant - in Italy is a well-known issue. Thousands of people work in fields, vineyards and greenhouses dotted across the country, often without contracts and in highly dangerous conditions.
Just last month, an Indian fruit picker died after his arm was severed in a work accident.
The man had allegedly been left on the side of the road following the accident, which also left his legs crushed.
His employer is now under in-
vestigation for criminal negligence and manslaughter.
The 33 men rescued by police in the Province of Verona had paid $18,554 or Rs. 1.5m each in return for seasonal work permits and jobs, according to a police statement.
To raise the funds, police said, some pawned their family assets, while others borrowed the money from their employers.
But they were only paid $5 per hour for their 10 to 12-hour days, with that sum settling any debt owed.
Their passports were also confiscated as soon as they arrived in Italy and they were banned from leaving their “dilapidated” apartments.
“Every morning, the workers piled into vehicles covered in tarpaulin where they hid among boxes of vegetables until they reached the Verona countryside for work,” the police statement said.
Undocumented laborers in Italy are often subjected to a system in which middlemen illegally hire laborers who are then forced to work for very low salaries
Searches of their apartments showed the workers were “forced to live in precarious and degrading conditions” and “in total violation
of health and hygiene regulations”, it added.
The rescued workers have received their passports back and are being helped by social services and a migration organization to relocate to safer housing and working conditions.
The two alleged gangmasters are now facing charges related to exploitation and slavery, police told Reuters news agency.
Undocumented laborers across Italy are often subject to a system known as “caporalato” – a gangmaster system which sees middlemen illegally hiring labourers who are then forced to work for very low salaries. Even workers with regular papers are often paid well below the legal wage.
Almost a quarter of the agricultural workforce in Italy in 2018 was employed under this method, according to a study by the Italian National Institute of Statistics. The practice also affects workers in the service industry and building sectors.
It was outlawed in Italy in 2016 after an Italian woman died of a heart attack after working 12-hour shifts picking and sorting grapes, for which she was paid $30 a day.
Credit: BBC News
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