Alleviating Hunger in the Community: Lowell, MA
In Lowell, MA, food insecurity continues to challenge many families, with studies showing that 40% of residents cannot afford the food they need. Inspired by Sri Sathya Sai Baba's message that feeding the hungry (Narayana Seva) is one of the highest forms of service, the Sai Unity Center of Lowell served 47 families during its bi-monthly pantry service on April 11, 2026. An initiative of the Love All Serve All (LASA) Foundation, the Sai Unity Center Pantry Service stands as a beacon of compassion with an uplifting mission to alleviate food insecurity while fostering dignity and respect for those it serves.
The successful distribution on April 11, 2026, culminated from a highly coordinated, week-long effort by 20 volunteers, including Young Adults and SSE Group 3 children. As a registered partner of the Merrimack Valley Food Bank (MVFB), the process starts when the pantry receives online orders weekly for free food.
On Wednesdays, a procurement team picks up the MVFB order, transports the supplies to the Sai Unity Center around 11:30 AM, and in the evening, volunteers unpack and stock the shelves. On Thursdays, a dedicated evening team assembles approximately 50 client bags filled with non-perishable staples such as beans, sugar, salt, canned goods, rice, and cooking oil.
Volunteers manage and organize perishable items, including fresh fruits, vegetables, and dairy products. During the summer, the Sai Unity Center Garden provides additional fresh harvests. The pantry supplements its distributions with personal care products generously donated by members, including toilet paper, sanitary napkins, paper towels, toothbrushes, and shampoo. The pantry distributes food and personal care items on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of the month.
For one mother, “As a single-parent household, every dollar counts. The support from the pantry with food, sanitary pads, and everyday essentials has eased our financial stress and helped us provide for our family with dignity.”
Another recipient noted, “When I lost my job, the pantry’s support made it possible for our family to have nutritious food and essential personal care products. During this difficult time, LASA Food Pantry gave our family hope and relief!”
This year, LASA Food Pantry proudly expanded its services by establishing a new partnership with the Lowell Diaper Bank. This collaboration allows the center to receive diapers at no cost, which are then distributed directly to clients. During the April 11th service, families received these essential diapers along with their nutritious food and personal care products.
For many center members, volunteering for the pantry service seva has been particularly rewarding, with one noting that involving her kids in the service has been what she loves the most. “It gives them an opportunity to understand the importance of compassion, gratitude, and giving back to the community. Serving together as a family makes the experience even more special and helps them learn that we are fortunate to have the opportunity to help others.”