For the women at Wellsprings Village, Inc., a transitional housing center in Houston for survivors of domestic violence, the journey toward healing is a path they do not walk alone. For eleven years, a dedicated group of Tzu Chi volunteers has been a consistent source of support, visiting every two months to share supplies, lead activities, and, most importantly, offer friendship. This long-standing bond, which began in February 2014, has weathered the years, providing a quiet but steady presence in the lives of women working to rebuild their futures.
A Tradition of Care and Creativity
On a visit in February 2025, shortly after the Lunar New Year, nine volunteers arrived with cleaning supplies and other necessities, helping to ease the operational burden on the non-profit center.
But their contribution went far beyond material aid. The day’s activities were infused with cultural sharing and heartfelt blessings. Volunteers Penny Liu (劉本琦), Jennifer An (梁明嬋), and Chun-Yen Ko (柯春燕) skillfully prepared materials for a craft activity: making fish-shaped ornaments from traditional red envelopes.
The fish is a symbol of abundance in Chinese culture, representing the wish for a "surplus year after year." As they guided the residents through the craft, a sense of calm and focus filled the room.
The session also included a sharing of Jing Si Aphorisms, simple yet profound words of wisdom. Penny Liu, deputy CEO of Tzu Chi USA’s Texas Region, noted how deeply the words resonated with the women. "They are very willing to share their thoughts on the aphorisms," she said. "Many of them connect a particular saying to their past experiences, and you can see how it moves them."
To honor the spirit of the Lunar New Year, Jennifer An gave each woman a red envelope containing two dollars. "I wanted to bring them a blessing for peace and health," she explained. "They all loved it. One resident told me she would save the money and not spend it, because she saw it as a blessing. It shows how much they cherish these moments."
Nurturing Body and Spirit
The care continued on April 9, when volunteers returned with another car full of supplies. This time, the focus was on holistic well-being. Julienne Chi (林華音), another deputy CEO of the Texas Region, led the women in a quiet moment of reflection, explaining the meaning behind the song "Love and Care" before they joined in a prayer for global peace.
During the Jing Si Aphorism sharing, one resident read aloud the phrase she had chosen: "The beauty of a group lies in the refinement of its individuals." She reflected on how this idea could guide her own life and attitude. Julienne observed, "These sessions give them a chance to open their hearts, to share their inner journey, and to find a new perspective. It’s wonderful to see."
The day held a special celebration for one resident whose birthday it was. She chose to mark the occasion by making a donation into a Tzu Chi bamboo bank, turning her personal milestone into an act of giving. The group serenaded her with "Happy Birthday," celebrating her life and her generous spirit.
At the request of the center's staff, community volunteer Yah Lim also led a Qigong session. "I chose Qigong because it's gentle and easy to learn," Yah explained. "In traditional Chinese medicine, we say that the flow of 'qi' and blood is essential for health. I wanted to help them enhance their energy." The session was a success, bringing smiles and a sense of vitality to the participants.
"When they move, their spirits lift," Yah said, her eyes lighting up. "Afterward, one of them gave me a hug and held on so tightly. I could feel her gratitude. It was a very moving connection."
A Bond Forged in Trust and Gratitude
This eleven-year relationship is a testament to the power of persistence, much of it driven by volunteer Jennifer An. Monique Douglas, the center's chief residential technician who has worked at Wellsprings for seventeen years, spoke of the deep impact the volunteers have had.
"We are so grateful that the volunteers take the time to come and interact with us. Everyone loves Jennifer," Monique shared. "When you first visited all those years ago, Jennifer was the key. She made an effort to get to know everyone personally."
Monique still remembers the first family the volunteers helped and cherishes the simple gifts given over the years. "The two-dollar red envelope is more than just two dollars," she said, her voice filled with emotion. "I still have every single one from each year, all kept together in my room."
Inspired by the volunteers' unwavering dedication, Monique expressed a desire to contribute to their mission. "The help you provide is more than just what we see here. I've always wanted to visit your country, and I want to make a donation to your organization. My donation is not just a blessing for Wellsprings, but a way to share this goodness and love."
The women who arrive at Wellsprings Village have endured immense trauma. They need more than just a roof over their heads; they need emotional support, care, and the knowledge that they are not forgotten. Through sincere, long-term companionship, the volunteers are helping to nurture their spirits, one visit at a time, as they walk the path toward a brighter, more hopeful future.
Written by Hsiu-Lien Chu (朱秀蓮) and Chin-Hung Yeh (葉晉宏)
Source: 德州志工長情關懷 陪伴家暴婦女安置中心十一載
