NEW YORK(TIP): South Asian Council for Social Services (SACSS’) 2018 Gala, “Food for Health” was held on Sunday, October 21, 2018 at Utsav restaurant.

Access to fresh and nutritious food is a basic necessity, not a luxury that only a few can afford.  This year’s theme focused on the significance of healthy food in the maintenance of the physical, mental and emotional well-being. Friends and supporters came together at the annual gathering for a day of festivity and celebrations, to support SACSS’ mission of empowering and integrating underserved South Asians and other immigrants into the economic and civic life of New York.

Sudha Acharya, Executive Director of SACSS stated that “over the past 18 years, I have seen clients come to us with varied and multiple needs. It is unbelievable how many are food insecure and from how many diverse communities. The food pantry has been an eye opener forus.” She emphasized the importance that all people, regardless of their status, should have access to fresh and nutritious food. Ms. Acharya said, “we are glad that ourSouth Asian Food Pantry serves healthy and nutritious food to over 1400 peopleevery week.”

As a longtime advocate and supporter of SACSS, Councilman Peter Koo, representing District 20, was honored for his compassion, and unwavering commitment to serving New York’s underserved communities. Councilman Koo appealed to the hearts of the gala attendees and inspired them to use their“expertise and time to make a difference for other people” and reminded the guests that “you can’t take your money to heaven so make sure you do important things with it on earth. Spend it down here!” His words of encouragement echoed throughout the night as generous community members supported SACSS.

Professor Dr. Jagat Narula, MD, PhD, Associate Dean for Global Affairs at Mount Sinai Hospital was honored for his devotion, dedication and contributions to medicine that enriches the health and well-being of communities. He emphasized on a simple yet powerful statement that “food is a basic necessity, not a luxury.” Dr. Narula praised SACSS for being “such a noble and credible organization” that continues to provide vital services to vulnerable individuals. He stressed that “it’s all about our lifestyle and what we eat and how we live”, referring to the day’s underlying theme of food being central to our health and well-being.

Hard-working SACSS Champions, Raj Kumari Chhabra, and Syeda Chowdhury and the enthusiastic Youth Leaders Satvika Marepalli, Aditya Rao and Varuna Shekar were recognized for their outstanding service and dedication to SACSS.

Master of Ceremonies, Prianka Nair, Staff Attorney with Disability Rights New York kept the audience engaged throughout the evening with her energetic personality while the Key Note Speaker, Anita Mirchandani, Dietician & Nutritionist with The NY Nutrition Group, PLLC shared the many benefits of healthy eating. Preetha Raghu with Navatman Music Collective dazzled the guests with her angelic voice as the stand-up comedian, Raghav Metha, kept everyone laughing with his witty sense of humor.