September 12, 2025, marked a significant milestone for the Tzu Chi New Jersey Branch as it celebrated the 15th anniversary of its food pantry. On a crisp autumn day, the branch’s courtyard buzzed with activity, volunteers in their blue and white uniforms moving with purpose. This celebration was not just an event; it symbolized fifteen years of countless volunteers delivering care and hope to families in need.

A decade and a half of dedication

The morning sun illuminated the Tzu Chi New Jersey Branch courtyard as volunteers diligently sorted, packed, and distributed food. The atmosphere was one of shared purpose and quiet efficiency. For many, this anniversary was a moment to reflect on the journey from humble beginnings to a thriving community service.

Chia-Huang Chang (張慈今), CEO of Tzu Chi New Jersey Branch, recalled the food pantry’s opening day in 2009. “We had everything ready, but not a single family came,” she remembered. “The food bank staff reassured us, saying, ‘Don’t worry, many people will come later.’ And indeed, slowly but surely, more and more families began to appear.”

Today, the food pantry serves nearly 450 families each week, and the volunteer team has grown from a handful to dozens. Chang shared, “Seeing everyone load bags of food into cars, working from morning until two in the afternoon, is truly moving. Every time I work alongside the volunteers, whether in the scorching sun or the biting cold, I feel that this is the essence of Tzu Chi.”

Volunteers: the heart of the operation

Ling-Hwa Tsai (陳玲華), one of the food pantry’s founding volunteers, reflected on the early days. “On the first day, I wondered if this could succeed. By the ninth year, I questioned if we could make it to ten. Now, fifteen years have passed in the blink of an eye.” She noted that over these fifteen years, the process evolved from manual registration to computerized management, and the storage moved from upstairs to downstairs. Every step, she said, was a testament to collective wisdom and effort. “It wasn’t easy, but I am so grateful for so many people willing to work together.”

We used to serve about 200 families; now it’s over 400. Although it’s hard work, I’m happy because the more people who know about Tzu Chi, the further our love spreads.
— Hua Lin (林華), volunteer

As the number of families grows, I sometimes wonder if it reflects increasing economic pressure. But I hope that one day, the food pantry will serve fewer people, because that would mean everyone’s lives have improved.
— Yan-Y Hung (黃茵儀), volunteer

Community connection and mutual support

Frances Shoenfield, a resident of the neighborhood next to the Tzu Chi New Jersey Branch, first noticed the food pantry because of the long line of cars one day.

I wondered what was happening here. When I got closer, I realized it was the Tzu Chi food pantry. Seeing so many people queuing for food touched my heart, so my husband and I decided to join.
— Frances Shoenfield, volunteer

Now, every Friday morning from 10 AM to 2 PM, Frances helps with distribution. “This is one of the most meaningful things I’ve ever done. Honestly, I feel I’ve received more than I’ve given.” Her husband, Mark Shoenfield, agreed, stating, “We feel that if we have the time and energy, giving back to society is the right way to live. It’s truly fulfilling to do meaningful work with this group of people.”

Milady Heredi, a Spanish-speaking volunteer, was once a recipient of Tzu Chi’s aid. Three years ago, she chose to return as a volunteer. “I received help, so I wanted to give back,” she said shyly. “Many Spanish-speaking families don’t speak English, and I know a little English, so I can help translate for them. Helping others truly makes me happy, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to be a volunteer.”

Ching-Ching Wei (魏慶慶), who joined in 2018, affirmed, “Even through the pandemic, my desire to help others has never changed.” Hsiu-Mei Yang (楊琇梅), a volunteer since the very first day, deeply understands the impact. “The food pantry has given me the chance to connect with people from different ethnic backgrounds. On the surface, their lives might seem fine, but many truly need help. Every Friday, I look forward to coming here because I see so many smiles. Being able to contribute makes me feel happy.”

Letting love continue to flow

For fifteen years, the Tzu Chi New Jersey Branch food pantry has delivered not just food, but also care and hope. Chi-Kung Chou (周濟躬), a volunteer, expressed his sincere feelings: “Although it’s hard work, my heart is filled with joy. I hope we can continue to serve those in need, and I hope more young people will join us in the future to keep this love flowing.”

Every Friday, familiar figures can be seen outside the New Jersey Branch, moving, smiling, and waving. Their unwavering belief has transformed into a gentle force, continuously warming the community. Fifteen years is a testament to time and an accumulation of love. From the first day with no recipients to today’s steady stream of cars, this food pantry has become more than just a distribution point; it is a spiritual haven for the New Jersey community. May this cycle of love continue to spread every Friday, creating more smiles and hope.

Written by Wen-Chi Chuang (莊雯琦)