AYUDH TO's Guru Purnima Wildfire Relief Collection Drive

In the spirit of Guru Purnima: A collective Effort to Bring Relief to Indigenous Families Displaced by Wildfires

As wildfires swept across Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Alberta, and British Columbia, thousands of people - many from Indigenous communities - were forced to evacuate and seek refuge in the Greater Toronto Area. Among them were families from Deer Lake First Nation, staying temporarily at two hotels in Toronto (Embassy Hilton and Holiday Inn). In the sacred spirit of Guru Purnima, and through the AYUDH Give initiative, AYUDH Toronto, in collaboration with ISN Maskwa and with the loving support of Amma Canada devotees, came together to extend a compassionate hand to these families in need. Thanks to Amma's grace and the heartfelt contributions of many volunteers and devotees, AYUDH TO was able to:

• Raise $1,000 for essential supplies
• Donate 170+ pairs of new socks
• Contribute 150+ pieces of new underwear for men, women & children
• Provide 13+ gently used suitcases and backpacks
• Supply 70 packs of sanitary pads

Many kind-hearted devotees generously offered funds, enabling volunteers to lovingly purchase the requested items and source additional bulk supplies from local shops and warehouses - thoughtfully chosen to meet the specific needs of the families. Many generous hearts also contributed gently used suitcases, clothing, and warm socks, delivering them with care to the Amma Canada Centre - each item carrying a silent prayer of love and comfort. A few devotees personally delivered items directly to the hotels where the evacuee families were staying, offering not just material support, but a heartfelt reminder that they are seen, valued, and embraced with compassion. AYUDH Toronto and Amma Canada volunteers coordinated two separate drop-offs at two different locations, ensuring that all donations reached the families before their return to the reserve.

Thank You

A heartfelt THANK YOU to everyone who gave their time, resources, and love to this compassionate seva. Your generosity brought comfort, hope, and dignity to families who have endured great hardship. This act of giving is not just for those we serve - it also offers a profound opportunity for inner transformation to those who take part. As Amma teaches, when we serve others selflessly, we awaken our dormant compassion and reconnect with our shared humanity. Through such actions, we serve God in all beings, and our hearts become more expansive, more loving, and more giving. Let us continue to be instruments of peace, love, and service in our communities.

With love and gratitude,
AYUDH Toronto Team

Om Lokah Samastah Sukhino Bhavantu ~ May all beings everywhere be happy