UNITED SIKHS Mobilizes for Texas Flood Relief, Mission Launched from  San Antonio Gurdwara

UNITED SIKHS, a UN-affiliated international humanitarian aid organization, has deployed its disaster relief teams to the critically flood-affected areas of Texas, including Kerr County and surrounding regions. With a rapidly rising death toll exceeding 100 and widespread displacement, UNITED SIKHS is on the ground to deliver urgent food, medical kits, and essential relief supplies to families reeling from the catastrophic flash floods that struck over the Fourth of July weekend.

The humanitarian mission officially launched today with an Ardas (Sikh prayer) at the Gurdwara Sikh Center of San Antonio. From there, the team immediately set off to begin distributing hot pizzas in the flood-affected areas, that fed nearly 200 people. They were generously donated by Gurjinder Singh and Neeru Kaur Walia of Marco’s Pizza. Their contribution brought immediate comfort and nourishment to displaced families and first responders.

Transportation for the relief team to Kerrville, including the pickup truck used during the distribution, was generously sponsored by Terlochan Singh ji Sandhu, Vice President of the Sikh Center of San Antonio. His support ensured vital relief supplies reached impacted areas swiftly and effectively.

At the First United Methodist Church in Kerrville, spokesperson Ms. Laura Shrader expressed deep gratitude for the team’s visit. She described how large portions of the southern and northern banks of the Guadalupe River collapsed, causing floodwaters to rise as high as 27 feet. The majority of those affected were campers, RV residents, or individuals with second homes along the riverbanks, resulting in very few permanent residents among the victims. She emphasized that the current phase of the response is primarily a retrieval mission, focused on locating missing persons rather than long-term shelter and aid.

Community Leaders Express Appreciation

The Chief of Police of Kerr County, through his spokesperson, shared:

“We are extremely appreciative of this outreach by UNITED SIKHS, the local Gurdwaras, and the Sikh community at large. We have seen the Sikh community at the forefront and consistently present as first responders in times of need. Your commitment to supporting victims is praiseworthy.”

Mrs. Teresa, spokesperson for the Salvation Army, added:

“We are overjoyed with the Sikh community’s outreach in providing hot meals for those in need.”

Balwinder Dhillon, President of the Sikh Center of San Antonio, shared:

“Sikhs of Texas, alongside the UNITED SIKHS team, began seva in flood-hit Central Texas with an Ardas at the Sikh Center of San Antonio. We served hot pizza to first responders and provided warm meals to shelters, the Red Cross, and veteran camps – where we were greeted with, ‘Welcome our Sikh brothers.’ Sikh Gurdwaras across Texas have united to support ongoing relief, with offers of help pouring in from across the U.S. Thank you for your continued prayers and support.”

As a reflection of this trust and collaboration, UNITED SIKHS has been requested to provide meals for over 100 individuals at the center this Friday.

The recent deluge has caused unprecedented damage, particularly in the Texas Hill Country, with the Guadalupe River experiencing historic surges. Communities, including those around Camp Mystic, have been severely impacted, losing homes and livelihoods.

UNITED SIKHS is committed to providing immediate and compassionate aid. Our teams are working tirelessly to reach those most in need, delivering vital supplies that can make a tangible difference in these challenging times. We stand in solidarity with the people of Texas as they begin the long process of recovery.

UNITED SIKHS’ on-the-ground efforts include: 

• Distribution of hot meals (including pizzas) and non-perishable food items to displaced families and first responders.

• Provision of medical kits and hygiene supplies to address immediate health concerns.

• Engagement with local leadership, including the County Police Chief, Fire Captain, City Head, and Mayor’s office, to coordinate ongoing relief efforts and ensure efficient aid distribution.

The organization urges the public to support its ongoing relief efforts. Donations are crucial to sustaining these operations and expanding reach to more affected communities.

UNITED SIKHS expresses heartfelt gratitude to the local Gurdwara and the sangat for their unwavering support, generosity, and spirit of seva – an enduring force that continues to energize and elevate this mission during times of need.

How to Help and Get Involved Today:

• DONATE: https://unitedsikhs.org/texas-flood-relief/
• VOLUNTEER : unitedsikhs.org
• 24-Hour UMEED Helpline : 855-878-6333

• Media Contact: Gurleen Kaur, Community PR & Media Advocate gurleen.kaur@unitedsikhs.org
• Disaster Relief Coordinator: Moninder Singh – 929-662-1064

UNITED SIKHS will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates on its relief operations.