FREMONT, CA, USA—Although this year’s annual 4th of July parade was canceled in Fremont due to the on-going COVID-19 pandemic, Sikhs however continued to take part and give back to the Fremont community like they have been doing for the past several years. Typically, members of the Sikh community take part in the annual parade by distributing free food and water. This year, due to the lockdown, members of the Sikh community organized a drive through food-drive instead.
The food drive was organized by volunteers from Fremont Gurdwara Sahib and Sikhs for Humanity in collaboration with the City of Fremont. The event took place on July 4 as Sikh volunteers served food, groceries and other essentials.
Sikh volunteers distributed groceries, produce, and pandemic essentials to over 400 needy families with all necessary precautions for volunteers.
Fremont City Mayor Lily Mei appreciated the efforts by the Sikh volunteers. Mayor Mei posted the following statement about the event –
She added, “The Sikh community has come out in support of our neighbors and friends. This year, with all the needs we have in our community, they are distributing fresh food, groceries, face covering, masks as well as hand sanitizers. We are so blessed that they are here continuously to help us and all of our neighbors.”
One of the volunteers, Rajinder Singh said, “American Independence Day was celebrated in a unique way, this time by distributing vegetables, fresh food, and other supplies, etc. From the last three-four days, over 40 volunteers have been continuously working hard while packaging dry goods.”
“There was a big need for this initiative. Cars have been lined up since early morning to pick up food. Today, people are afraid of going to the stores to buy essentials and we are humbled to provide this service to those in need,” Rajinder Singh added. He appreciated the efforts by the Police Chief, the City Mayor, and others who provided assistance.
