A group of Robbinsville children delivered more than 400 pounds of food to the Robbinsville Food Pantry ahead of Diwali, following a neighborhood food drive organized as part of the Sewa Diwali initiative.
Sewa Diwali is an annual volunteer-led food drive held around Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights. Sewa means selfless service, and the initiative encourages families to mark the holiday by giving back to their communities.
The initiative began in New Jersey in 2018 and has since expanded nationwide, with local volunteers collecting food for pantries in their communities. Organizers also aim to encourage younger generations to participate in community service.
Over several weeks, Robbinsville families donated canned goods and other nonperishable food items at collection points organized and managed by local children at their homes.
Avyan, Neil, Aarna and Mahim delivered the donations to the food pantry and helped carry the food inside. Saanvi, Avni, Arnav, Ayaan, Aadhya and Aanya also participated in collecting donations but were unable to attend the delivery.
Pantry representatives Donna and Beth helped receive the donations and explained how the pantry assists Robbinsville residents experiencing food insecurity. The children learned about the pantry’s operations and how donated food is distributed to families in need. Last names were not provided due to privacy concerns.
The Robbinsville Food Pantry accepts donations and welcomes volunteers throughout the year.
Residents interested in donating or volunteering can email brinyu@robbinsville.net or call 609-259-1567.
