By Hsiu-Lin Wu, Fernanda Wu
Reporting from Chile
Cooking with Love in the Cold Winter
In the chilly early hours of a winter morning, Chin-Chiu Liao stood in the kitchen, tirelessly stirring a large pot of lentil porridge. The warm aroma of food filled the air, melting away his fatigue. For nearly four years, Chin-Chiu and his wife, Fernanda Wu, along with other Tzu Chi volunteers, have been providing hot meals to the homeless and elderly in need. Despite harsh weather—whether it be the scorching heat of summer or the biting cold of winter—the couple never missed a single Tuesday at the San Gregorio de la Salle School’s food station in La Granja, Chile.
Since the start of this mission, they have served 164 meals as of August 27, 2024. On this particular day, Fernanda and Chin-Chiu prepare lentil porridge, a healthy and hearty dish that warms both the stomach and the heart.
Nourishment with Heart and Soul
On August 13, Fernanda arrived early at the kitchen, her apron ready. She shared her recipe with fellow volunteer Eugenia: "We cook the lentils on a low flame and add sautéed vegetables, then mix in rice until it thickens. It's not just nutritious, it’s delicious."
The preparation was a team effort, as they made enough porridge to feed over eighty people. Colorful vegetables were added to the mix, creating a visually and nutritionally rich dish. But it wasn’t just the food that made the meal special—it was the love infused in every step. The volunteers believed that when food is made with love, it not only fills the stomach but also warms the soul.
Feeding the Geese, Feeding the Soul
After the meal preparation, the volunteers visited the school’s small ecological garden, home to five plump geese. Chin-Chiu, familiar with his task, carefully cleaned their enclosure. “These geese are the best advocates for vegetarianism. They eat only vegetables and live happily,” Fernanda remarked, her eyes full of kindness. To her, all creatures, big or small, have a spiritual connection and deserve care.
The volunteers also organized donations of second-hand clothes for the homeless, extending their care beyond just food. They meticulously sorted and displayed the items so that the recipients could take what they needed, ensuring they stayed warm through the winter.
Meals, Bread, and Gratitude
By noon, the homeless gathered, each receiving a numbered ticket to ensure everyone got a meal. Over the years, these volunteers had formed close bonds with the people they served. The distribution of food wasn’t just a routine—it was a moment of connection, filled with heartfelt greetings and mutual gratitude.
Even local high school students came to help, learning valuable lessons in respect and compassion. “Take care of the elderly in your family, and then extend that care to others,” the volunteers taught them, spreading the message of empathy to the next generation.
A Healthier, More Loving Choice
On August 20, the volunteers returned for their 163rd meal distribution. This time, they included a special treat: fruit cups. The day’s menu featured vegetable rice and vegetarian chicken nuggets. Although pan-frying the nuggets required more effort than deep frying, Fernanda was committed to providing healthy meals. They packed 79 meal boxes that day, filled with love and care for the people who had no one else to look after them.
The volunteers also cleaned the geese’s enclosure and fed them fresh greens, showing that their love and care knew no boundaries. Every creature, human or animal, is equally deserving of their compassion.
A Reunion of Hearts
On August 27, for the 164th meal distribution, the volunteers were joined by Father Santiago, who had just returned from Spain. Although he had been away, the volunteers had continued their work without missing a beat. Father Santiago expressed his heartfelt gratitude, especially for the 150 vegetarian spring rolls donated by volunteer Ya-Hui Yang. “This donation benefits so many people in this area. We are deeply thankful,” said Father Santiago.
Father Juan, another priest, shared his thanks: “Fernanda and Chin-Chiu have always been here, helping this food station. Many people owe their meals to your dedication.” Their words were echoed by Eugenia, a long-time volunteer, who expressed her gratitude for the years of support. The community had become like a family, united by love and service.
In Service to the Lonely and Needy
One elderly man, Braulio, regularly comes to the food station to collect his meal box. Today, he took it upon himself to tidy up the small garden at the station. “We used to work, then play guitar and basketball, singing local songs. But now, the youth are lost to drugs and alcohol,” he lamented. His words reflect the harsh reality faced by many, where genuine joy and purpose have been replaced by destructive habits.
As Braulio received his meal, he offered a heartfelt "thank you," echoing the sentiments of so many others. The Tzu Chi volunteers know that these meals are often the only source of warmth and sustenance the homeless have. In a world that seems to have forgotten them, the volunteers persist with their steadfast support, ensuring that love and kindness never runs dry.
These selfless acts of service are more than just a meal—they are a beacon of hope in the lives of those who have none. For every person they feed, they hope to restore a little dignity, faith, and a lot of love.