In celebration of the 551st anniversary of the birth of Guru Nanak, the founder of the Sikh faith, members from the Guru Gobind Singh Foundation (GGSF) and Sikh Spiritual Center in Rockville had something special in mind. They dedicated many hours over the past few weeks to collecting blankets, donations and food, culminating with a special day of service.
The effort resulted in more than 2,000 meals, 551 blankets, 551 boxes of fresh produce and pies being distributed on Nov. 30 to families in need at JoAnn Leleck Elementary School at Broad Acres in Silver Spring, in coordination with Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS). The school’s students have one of the highest poverty rates among MCPS schools. Bus drivers transported the donations to the school and dozens of volunteers helped distribute the food and blankets to more than 550 families.
The GGSF Sikh Center has been coordinating extensive efforts since the COVID-19 health crisis began in March to combat hunger in the County. Its volunteers have repackaged bulk rice, beans and lentils for distribution to local food banks and the center has provided hot meals and produce boxes on a weekly basis. The efforts have been aided by other volunteers of many faiths who have come to the GGSF Center.
Those who could benefit from assistance or who know someone who might need help can get more information at www.montgomerycountymd.gov/covid19/get-help/food.html. Information on assistance also can be obtained from the Montgomery Call Center at 311.
Anyone interested in volunteering to help in a variety of ways can learn more at the Montgomery County Volunteer Center’s website at www.montgomerycountymd.gov/covid19/get-help/food.html#donations.