In light of the recent events in Bharat (India), it becomes imperative to inform you of our stand on the violence in Gujarat as well as the Ram Janmabhoomi issue. Vishwa Hindu Parishad of America (VHPA) strongly condemns the barbaric attack and torching of Hindu pilgrims in Sabarmati Express in Godhara and the despicable violence in its aftermath.

• VHPA offers full moral and religious support for the reconstruction of a magnificent temple at the birthplace of Lord Ram. VHPA has never sent any funds for the construction of Ram Mandir.

• VHPA is an independent non-profit tax-exempt organization registered under 501 C (3) in USA with its own constitution and bylaws, operating under the laws of USA.

• VHPA has been working with established service organizations in Bharat in the following areas:
  • Support-a-child: In this program VHPA supports over 800 needy children in various states of Bharat, usually until they graduate from high school. The support provides lodging, boarding, books, medical care, and other daily needs for the needy and tribal children.
  • Ekal Vidyalaya (one teacher school): For dollar-a-day or $365 per year, one Ekal Vidyalaya can be sponsored. An Ekal Vidyalaya provides informal education and primary health care to approximately 30 children in a remote vanvasi (tribal) areas of Bharat. Last year the Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation of America sponsored 1250 such schools.
  • Relief Funds: From time to time VHPA has raised funds for helping the victims of natural calamities in Bharat such as earthquake in Latur, Cyclone in Orissa and floods in Morvi. Funds have also been raised to build schools and hospitals in Bharat.
  • Gujarat Earthquake Relief Fund: Last year VHPA raised over $430,000 to facilitate the rehabilitation of the town of Lodai located 32 km away from Bhuj. This effort includes constructing 250 houses, one school, one panchayat office, one community hall, one temple, a water tank and roads.
• In USA, VHPA has donated to organizations like Red Cross, American Cancer Society, Salvation Army etc. Our chapters participate in community service programs like the soup kitchens for feeding the homeless as well as distributing blankets to the needy in winter. VHPA has also raised funds for the victims of Oklahoma bombing and victims of WTC terrorist attack. Recently the WTC funds were distributed to the spouses of the victims on H-1B visas.

• VHPA offers several programs and projects, through its many chapters, to cater to the needs of Hindus in USA. These include Bal Vihars for children, Youth camps and Youth conferences for younger generation, Satsangs (Devotional gatherings), festival celebrations, senior citizen programs as well as publication of Hindu literature.
  • Hindu Student Council: This student association on college campuses aims at preserving Hindu culture and heritage amongst Hindu students.
  • AHAD: American Hindus Against Defamation, convened by VHPA, is a pioneer Hindu rights coalition representing several organizations, has successfully won against small companies selling toilet seats with picture of Lord Ganesh as well as giant corporations like SONY portraying distorted picture of Lord Krishna on the cover of the CD.

  
  We appreciate your continued support and participation in the programs and projects of VHP of America.

  Jay Shri Ram