Sikh-Led Initiative Delivers Over 10,000 Meals for Thanksgiving Across Five States

Let’s Share a Meal (LSM), a nonprofit initiative rooted in Sikh traditions, marked this Thanksgiving by preparing and distributing more than 10,000 vegetarian meals to those in need. The effort spanned 80 locations across New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, and Connecticut.

A workforce of over 700 volunteers, drawn from various communities, made this initiative possible. They delivered meals to homeless shelters, senior residences, and soup kitchens. This Thanksgiving event is part of LSM’s broader mission, which has seen the organization provide over one million meals across the United States in the past 12 years.

“Let’s Share a Meal was inspired by the life and teachings of Guru Nanak, the founder of the Sikh religion, who established the concept of Langar, or community kitchen,” explained one of the event’s key organizers. “This tradition is built on the values of selfless service and equality — feeding the hungry without discrimination, regardless of their race, religion, or background.”

The meals, all freshly prepared, reflected the vegetarian ethos of the Sikh community’s Langar tradition. Volunteers from diverse backgrounds, including members of the broader American community, contributed to the effort by cooking, packaging, and delivering meals.

Singh, one of the leading organizers, emphasized the spiritual underpinnings of the initiative. “We are trying to teach our children the core values of our religion, which include peace, harmony, and Oneness. Oneness is not just for Sikhs but for all of humanity. The world is one community, and nobody should be hungry or unequal,” he said.

Harleen Kaur, who has been involved in the program for many years, reflected on its evolution. “I have been part of this incredible effort for over 15 years, and I am so grateful to see how it has grown. Every year, more and more people — volunteers and donors alike — come together to make this possible.”

LSM began modestly, distributing just 1,500 meals during its inaugural year. Since then, the initiative has expanded significantly, now serving more than 20,000 meals annually. Organizers are already planning further growth to meet increasing needs. Beyond the United States, the program’s success has inspired similar efforts in countries such as India, the United Kingdom, and Australia.

“Our Langar serves as a beacon of hope and unity, emphasizing humanity and equality across all boundaries,” Singh noted. “It is a reminder that we are all human beings, and we should treat each other with care and respect, regardless of caste, creed, or gender. This is the true spirit of Thanksgiving.”

Through its efforts, LSM continues to demonstrate how the values of selfless service, unity, and compassion can resonate far beyond religious boundaries, making a tangible impact on communities in need.