Sewa International Mobilizes Volunteers to Aid Central Texas Flood Recovery Efforts
In early July 2025, the Texas Hill Country was struck by a series of devastating flash floods, leading to immense destruction and unfortunately, significant loss of life. Preliminary reports indicate that over 100 lives were lost, with many individuals still unaccounted for. Thousands of homes across various counties suffered severe damage, displacing families and creating an urgent need for assistance as essential supplies became scarce amidst the chaos.
In response to this crisis, Sewa International swiftly initiated a multi-city response effort, mobilizing more than 100 volunteers from its chapters in Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, Austin, and San Antonio. The relief operations began on July 7, with teams deployed in affected areas including Kerrville, Ingram, Hunt, and Leander. Volunteers engaged in various essential tasks such as clearing debris, restoring local amenities, and assisting with supply distribution.
During a two-day event on July 19-20, Sewa teams worked extensively in Center Point, Hunt, and Ingram, focusing on cleanup tasks that included mucking out homes, safely disposing of moldy furniture, and conducting logistics for volunteer operations. The organization's leadership emphasized their commitment, stating, "Sewa is committed to standing with our Texas communities during this heartbreaking time." The President of Sewa International, Srikant Gundavarapu, highlighted their aim to assist families with immediate necessities like food and shelter, as well as providing long-term support for rebuilding efforts.
Currently, with over 1,000 cleanup requests reported, Sewa International acknowledges the challenge of sustaining such extensive relief operations. They are collaborating with the Texas Department of Emergency Management, the Salvation Army, and various local organizations to enhance their response efforts.
Rakhi Israni, a spokesperson for Sewa, indicated that the organization is driven by a motto of 'selfless service.' She noted the severe impact on flood survivors, many of whom have lost more than just their homes but also their livelihoods and loved ones. To address the growing needs, Sewa has established the Texas Hill Country Flood Relief Fund, aiming to raise $250,000 for urgent relief and recovery measures.
As part of their outreach, Sewa has received significant support from various partners, including Ekal Vidyalaya, Operation Blessing, and others within the Indian American and U.S. communities. This collaboration will help ensure a sustained response while providing logistical support in a way that prioritizes the safety and effectiveness of volunteers. In addition to fundraising and immediate response actions, the relief operations encourage community engagement through volunteer registration, which has opened opportunities for many to participate in the recovery process.
To contribute to the relief efforts, Sewa invites individuals to donate via their online platform and spread the word through social media channels. Efforts include supplying food, hygiene kits, gift cards, and shelter to families in need. As the recovery continues, the role of organizations like Sewa becomes crucial, not only in immediate relief but also in the work of rebuilding communities and restoring livelihoods.
In summary, the response of Sewa International in Central Texas epitomizes community resilience and solidarity in the face of natural disasters. Their efforts highlight the importance of coordinated responses that involve volunteers, local nonprofits, and emergency management to effectively tackle the aftermath of such devastating events. Together, they aim to bring hope and support to those affected as they embark on the long journey toward recovery.
In response to this crisis, Sewa International swiftly initiated a multi-city response effort, mobilizing more than 100 volunteers from its chapters in Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, Austin, and San Antonio. The relief operations began on July 7, with teams deployed in affected areas including Kerrville, Ingram, Hunt, and Leander. Volunteers engaged in various essential tasks such as clearing debris, restoring local amenities, and assisting with supply distribution.
During a two-day event on July 19-20, Sewa teams worked extensively in Center Point, Hunt, and Ingram, focusing on cleanup tasks that included mucking out homes, safely disposing of moldy furniture, and conducting logistics for volunteer operations. The organization's leadership emphasized their commitment, stating, "Sewa is committed to standing with our Texas communities during this heartbreaking time." The President of Sewa International, Srikant Gundavarapu, highlighted their aim to assist families with immediate necessities like food and shelter, as well as providing long-term support for rebuilding efforts.
Currently, with over 1,000 cleanup requests reported, Sewa International acknowledges the challenge of sustaining such extensive relief operations. They are collaborating with the Texas Department of Emergency Management, the Salvation Army, and various local organizations to enhance their response efforts.
Rakhi Israni, a spokesperson for Sewa, indicated that the organization is driven by a motto of 'selfless service.' She noted the severe impact on flood survivors, many of whom have lost more than just their homes but also their livelihoods and loved ones. To address the growing needs, Sewa has established the Texas Hill Country Flood Relief Fund, aiming to raise $250,000 for urgent relief and recovery measures.
As part of their outreach, Sewa has received significant support from various partners, including Ekal Vidyalaya, Operation Blessing, and others within the Indian American and U.S. communities. This collaboration will help ensure a sustained response while providing logistical support in a way that prioritizes the safety and effectiveness of volunteers. In addition to fundraising and immediate response actions, the relief operations encourage community engagement through volunteer registration, which has opened opportunities for many to participate in the recovery process.
To contribute to the relief efforts, Sewa invites individuals to donate via their online platform and spread the word through social media channels. Efforts include supplying food, hygiene kits, gift cards, and shelter to families in need. As the recovery continues, the role of organizations like Sewa becomes crucial, not only in immediate relief but also in the work of rebuilding communities and restoring livelihoods.
In summary, the response of Sewa International in Central Texas epitomizes community resilience and solidarity in the face of natural disasters. Their efforts highlight the importance of coordinated responses that involve volunteers, local nonprofits, and emergency management to effectively tackle the aftermath of such devastating events. Together, they aim to bring hope and support to those affected as they embark on the long journey toward recovery.
Topics Policy & Public Interest）
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