It’s hard to imagine a more challenging year for Saranagati Village than 2024 which brought the devastating July wildfire that destroyed homes, outbuildings, machinery, and most of the forest surrounding the village. Without traditional insurance (because they are an off-grid community), the residents have depended chiefly on the largesse of devotees worldwide and the kindness and generosity of their local community.

Traditionally, they cook thousands of prasadam cookies to share with locals during the Christmas season, and no one would have faulted them for putting that outreach on hold this year. Still, all agreed it was an important way to reciprocate the kindness from neighbors and strangers alike. “One of the items we lost in the wildfire this past summer was our cookie oven,” said Nandini Devi Dasi. “We decided that the money raised at the Fall Fair would go towards replacing that oven since it is an important part of our Christmas Cookie Marathon which we have been doing in Saranagati for over 30 years.”

In November, Jai, a community member, found a replacement oven, and thanks to the kindness of a friend, it was delivered just in time for them to begin baking.

On Sunday, December 15th, many community members, young and old, gathered at the school to mix, roll, and bake over 8,000 cookies. “The following day, a smaller group of community members including our school students, bagged, tagged, and tied a bow on over 1,000 cookie bundles, which were distributed to businesses, services, and friends in the area and nearby towns,” said Nandini, “We also dropped off over 150 bags to the regional office in the nearby city of Kamloops in appreciation for all their help with wildfire relief and recovery.”

After the distribution, Nandini’s social media was filled with expressions of awe and gratitude from local recipients of the gifts. One resident said, “Your cookies have become one of my favorite parts of our little small-town Christmas. We all thank you tremendously.”

Radha Kunda and Lilamrta organized this year’s Christmas Cookie Marathon operation. Entering the winter will be a difficult season for Saranagati, but the community is empowered by this seasonal service and trusting in the mercy of Lord Sri Krsna.

How You Can Help Saranagati Village Rebuild
Both individual devotees and ISKCON temples are invited to donate additional funds to help rebuild the community. The Saranagati Village community is deeply grateful for any support. For additional details and to donate, click here. For further information, contact us via email. For US residents who wish to make a tax-deductible donation to Saranagati’s Venables Valley Wildfire Relief Fund (facilitated by New Vrindaban), click here.