With a gentle breeze and warm afternoon sun cheering them on, a group of determined young adults from Quilicura, Chile, set out for the city square. Pushing a wheelchair, carrying chairs, and holding display stands, they were on a mission not just to sell their goods but to showcase their capabilities and embrace their independence. This is the daily reality for the members of the Packaging Workshop for Youth with Disabilities, an initiative that has been transforming lives for over two years.

Established on March 30, 2023, the workshop aims to help young adults with special needs discover their potential by training them in practical skills like cleaning and packaging. The ultimate goal is to facilitate their integration into society and open doors to more opportunities. For two years, Tzu Chi volunteers in Chile have walked alongside them, and on May 29, 2025, they arrived with another delivery of supplies and warmth to support their journey.

A Delivery of Warmth and Opportunity

The volunteers brought 138 kilograms of assorted dried fruits and nuts — almonds, peanuts, walnuts, and raisins — enough to supply the workshop for half a year. They also came bearing eight cozy bedding sets to help the youths prepare for the approaching winter.

"We provide these materials periodically so they can continue their work, transforming them from people who receive help to individuals who live with value and dignity," explained Fernanda Wu (吳惠蘭), the head of Tzu Chi in Chile. She also expressed her admiration for the mothers who have tirelessly supported their children, instilling in them the courage and confidence to face the world with a positive outlook.

The workshop’s head, a woman named Keni, was waiting with a trolley to receive the supplies, her face beaming with gratitude. "Every time I think of Tzu Chi, my heart is filled with an inexplicable emotion for all the love you bring," she said. Looking at the thick winter blankets, she added, "These warm blankets will give the children a better quality of life. Thank you so much."

The simple, pure joy of the young adults was palpable. "Awesome! Thank you!" exclaimed Patricio. Bastian added, "Thank you so much!" while Belen admired the beautiful bedding.

One of the most touching stories is that of Keni’s grandson, Francisco. After countless surgeries, he is unable to stand and has limited use of his right hand. Yet, the difficult journey has not defeated their spirits. Holding his new blanket set, Francisco offered a polite, clear "Thank you," his and his grandmother's bright smiles a testament to their resilience.

The Dignity of Work

Back at the workshop, a space dedicated to fostering independence, the real work began. The young adults donned their professional gear — hairnets, masks, gloves, and aprons — and started packaging the dried fruit with the help of their mothers and the volunteers.

The atmosphere was one of focused collaboration. Volunteer In-Lin Yang (楊櫻玲) gently helped Belen adjust her hairnet, ensuring she could work comfortably. Volunteer Chin-Chiu Liao (廖欽久) assisted Ronny in weighing each package to a precise 100 grams.

Frank, a young man with cerebral palsy, found it challenging to coordinate his movements but meticulously placed a sticker on each finished product. "I have seen him grow so much over these years," remarked Yang. The volunteers firmly believe that with patience and love, these young people can achieve remarkable things.

The workshop is a model of organization. Keni carefully logs the day's production, costs, and sales in a spreadsheet, ensuring everything is accounted for. "This is a loving enterprise," Hui-Lan reflected. "These young people, despite their physical challenges, have healthy minds and can contribute to supporting themselves."

A Cycle of Giving

As the volunteers prepared to leave, they were met with a touching surprise. One of the mothers approached Fernanda, holding out a coin bank. "Ms. Fernanda, this is money donated by the children at the workshop," she said earnestly. "They have been saving it since last year, waiting for you to come."

Fernanda accepted the container, her voice thick with emotion. "Thank you! Thank you!" she repeated, trying to contain her feelings. "This is such a precious moment. These children saved their money, coin by coin, to donate to Tzu Chi. It is truly moving." The youths had collected 27,450 Chilean pesos (about 29 USD). In this simple, powerful act, they had completed the circle of kindness, returning the love they had received.

Earning a Living with Pride

With their products ready, the group headed to the bustling square in front of the city hall to begin selling. "I hope the public will give them strength," said Yang, who was participating for the first time. "When people see them, I hope they will buy something to encourage them and support this first step toward self-reliance."

The response from the community was warm. "How are the sales?" Fernanda asked. "Very good!" replied a cheerful Patrick. Passersby, moved by the youths' efforts, stopped to make purchases. An elderly woman bought several boxes, offering her full support.

In a quiet moment, Frank, who had been so diligently working, gave Fernanda a gentle shoulder massage, a small gesture that spoke volumes about the deep, family-like bond forged between the volunteers and the youths.

"It's inspiring to see these children, who have faced so many challenges, take this step in their lives," said Chin-Chiu. "This work gives them a hopeful future."

As night fell, a message appeared on Fernanda’s phone. It was from Keni. "How can I not thank you, my dear friends?" she wrote. "You are always supporting the workshop. The dried fruit helps us save costs and increase the youths' income. And with your beautiful blankets, they will not be cold this winter. I am forever grateful." Attached was a photo of Francisco's bed, neatly made with the new blanket, a picture of warmth and care that radiated through the screen and into the volunteers' hearts.

Written by Fernanda Wu (吳惠蘭) and Hsiu-Ling Wu (吳秀玲)

Source: 把愛包起來 智利志工助慢飛天使一臂之力