Making a Difference Together
At HACSI, our services are designed to address pressing needs and support our community through various impactful initiatives. We are committed to providing essential aid and resources to those in need, leveraging our network of partners and volunteers to deliver effective support. Each of our services reflects our dedication to making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and families within our community.
Food for the Needy
Food for the Needy launched in 2007 with HACSI volunteers at DC Central Kitchen (DCCK).
1. Prepared 5,000 meals per occasion, totaling 120,000 meals annually and over 1 million meals from 2007 to 2017.
2. COVID-19 restrictions in Spring 2020 suspended volunteer involvement at DCCK.
3. HACSI shifted to cash grants for staff costs: $27,500 in 2020 and $6,500 in early 2021.
4. In 2018, HACSI expanded to serve lunch to 75 individuals at Baileys Crossroads Community Hall.
5. Partnered with six HELP organizations in Montgomery County to collect and distribute canned food.
6. The pandemic temporarily halted the canned food drive.
7. HACSI provided $15,000 in grants to HELP organizations in 2020 and $7,500 in early 2021 for purchasing canned goods.
Helping Hindu Families in Distress
HACSI has provided essential support to Hindu families facing hardships such as death, prolonged illness, domestic violence, and legal disputes. We’ve allocated $84,000 to assist 20 families, offering both financial aid and volunteer guidance during difficult times. In 2020, we donated $17,000, and in 2021, we awarded a $5,000 grant to a college student whose family was in financial crisis. The increasing number of referrals from government agencies and community leaders highlights the growing need for our services.
COVID-19 Relief Activities
During the pandemic, HACSI expanded its food assistance program, organizing 13 Grab and Go food drives from May 2020 to April 2021 and distributing 150,000 pounds of groceries to 4,940 families. We also provided financial support to DC Central Kitchen and local HELPs, delivered monthly meals to Baileys Cross Roads Shelter, and our volunteers contributed 1,600 hours. Overall, HACSI's pandemic assistance exceeded $100,000.
Disaster Relief
HACSI funds disaster relief efforts in India and the US. We contributed $22,000 for Tamil Nadu flood victims in 2015-16, partnered with Sri Siva Vishnu Temple for Ecuador earthquake relief, donated $15,000 for Hurricanes Harvey and Irma in 2017, and provided $10,000 for Kerala flood relief in 2018.
Health Fair & Blood Donation Drive
In collaboration with Sri Siva Vishnu Temple, HACSI organizes health fairs offering check-ups, flu shots, and eye exams. Since 2017, we've conducted periodic blood donation drives to encourage participation within the Hindu community.
Educational Outreach
HACSI has enhanced educational outreach by distributing the PBS documentary “Asian and Abrahamic Religions” to 350 high schools and funding workshops for social studies teachers. We supported the InterFaith Conference of Metropolitan Washington with $41,000 and funded the Sri Gargeshwari Digital Foundation for digitizing Hindu manuscripts, contributing $4,000 in total.
Financial Assistance to Needy
HACSI provides approximately $200,000 annually in financial assistance to six HELP organizations in Montgomery County, covering essentials like prescription drugs and rent. Each grant, representing about 7.5% of the organizations’ budgets, ensures targeted support for needy families.
Support Our Efforts
Your involvement is crucial to the success of our programs. By supporting our services, you contribute to meaningful change and help us reach more individuals who require assistance. Join us in our mission to support and uplift our community.