Compassionate Service in Action

Providing nourishment to individuals experiencing homelessness in Riverside

Every Saturday at 9 AM, members from the Sri Sathya Sai Centers in Southern California, who regularly attend devotional sessions at Sai Prema Nilayam, gather for a special cause. Approximately fifteen to twenty enthusiastic volunteers dedicate their time to preparing food packets for individuals experiencing homelessness in the neighborhood.

This compassionate endeavor involves diligently assembling about 108 to 216 food packets. Each packet is filled with generously donated items, including peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, burritos, pizzas, fruits, water bottles, and snack packs, all contributed by Sai volunteers.

By 11 AM, about three or four cars, each carrying two or three Sai volunteers, embark on a compassionate journey through the streets of Riverside County. Their mission: to personally hand over food packets to individuals experiencing homelessness that they encounter. Volunteers focus their efforts on downtown Riverside, areas around local parks, shopping centers, and library grounds—locations where many unhoused individuals often gather. The entire service, from diligent packing to heartfelt distribution, typically takes about one to one and a half hours.

This group sadhana represents a dedicated effort by Sai volunteers to make a tangible, positive impact on their neighborhood. Beyond regular meal distribution, volunteers sometimes extend their support by distributing essential items, such as underwear, blankets, and hygiene kits.

The gratitude from the recipients is consistently heartwarming. Individuals experiencing homelessness often offer simple, heartfelt thanks, frequently saying, "God bless you." One person eloquently expressed their appreciation, remarking, "May God give you more food and blessings for the nourishment you are providing us today."

Volunteers find deep fulfillment in this service, knowing they make a meaningful difference in the lives of those less fortunate. It's a powerful reminder that even small actions can have a profound impact.

As one volunteer beautifully expressed, "It is a small yet significant gesture, just a little service we can offer to those in need. We are grateful to our beloved Sai for guiding us to drive around, seek out, and serve our unhoused brothers and sisters on the streets."