Written by Shuli Lo
Translated by H.B. Qin
Edited by Ariel Tsai
Each month, the Tzu Chi San Gabriel Valley Service Center conducts a food distribution at the local Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) parking lot. Amid rising living costs and ongoing economic pressures, Tzu Chi volunteers continue to provide food assistance to community members in need. Through thoughtful service and genuine care, they offer not only essential supplies but also warmth and encouragement to those they serve.
The success of each distribution depends on teamwork and coordination among volunteers. Tasks are assigned according to individual strengths and physical abilities. Younger volunteers typically handle heavy lifting and site setup, while senior volunteers take on physically lighter responsibilities. Together, they demonstrate a spirit of cooperation and mutual support.
Multilingual Communication Brings People Closer
The fresh and nutritious food, combined with volunteers’ welcoming attitude, has attracted participants from a wide range of cultural backgrounds. Recipients include not only Chinese-speaking residents but also individuals and families from many different communities.
Volunteers who speak multiple languages communicate with recipients in their preferred languages, helping them feel comfortable, respected, and understood. These interactions foster trust and create a warm, welcoming atmosphere throughout the distribution site.
Volunteer Cardine Tsai has long been responsible for registration and check-in. She uses her multilingual skills to build connections with community members and help newcomers feel comfortable.
“By observing and speaking with people, I can often identify the language they are most comfortable using,” Tsai said. “Being able to communicate in a familiar language helps first-time visitors feel especially welcome.”
I just spoke to someone in Vietnamese, and he was pleasantly surprised. He felt understood and respected.
Thoughtful Service Brings Warmth to Vulnerable Communities
During distributions, Tsai often witnesses the challenges faced by elderly residents and individuals with mobility limitations. She regularly helps pack supplies, carry items, and assist recipients in loading food into their carts.
“I often tell them, ‘Leave it to me; let me help.’ That’s part of our service,” Tsai said.
The gratitude expressed by recipients reinforces the value of her efforts and motivates her to continue serving.
Volunteer Handayani Holinda, who also serves as a greeter, welcomes recipients from diverse backgrounds using multiple languages. Whether speaking Spanish, Japanese, Korean, or English, she often begins with a simple greeting such as “Good morning” or “How are you?”
Through her service, Holinda has gained a deeper appreciation for her own blessings while witnessing the challenges faced by many vulnerable families.
I also pray for them, hoping that their lives will be better in the future.
A Cycle of Kindness Inspires Hope in the Community
In addition to distributing food, volunteers encourage recipients to read Tzu Chi publications to learn more about the organization’s mission and stories of compassion. Holinda hopes these materials provide spiritual encouragement alongside practical support.
Community member Heng Xu shared that rising prices have made food assistance increasingly valuable.
“Not only does it save money, but vegetarian food also helps sow seeds of goodness because it benefits both the environment and all living beings,” Xu said.
As a Buddhist, Xu expressed strong support for Tzu Chi’s promotion of vegetarianism and environmental stewardship.
Another recipient, Mr. Li, shared that he often arrives as early as 2 or 3 a.m. to wait in line so he can receive food for his family, including his wife, who is blind and has mobility challenges.
“With the current economic difficulties and our limited income, this assistance has truly relieved a lot of pressure,” Li said.
He expressed gratitude to the volunteers for their dedication, noting that their support helps his family feel the warmth and care of the community during difficult times.
Through food distribution, Tzu Chi volunteers provide more than daily necessities. By serving with respect, compassion, and attentiveness, they build meaningful connections with the people they meet. Every greeting, every helping hand, and every act of kindness transforms assistance into something deeper, an exchange of care that continues to bring hope and compassion to the community.
