The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges to Tokyo, as emergency declarations led to job losses and reduced working hours. Many families in the Shinjuku district found themselves struggling to put food on the table. Following a consultation with the Shinjuku District Social Welfare Council and two months of preparation, the Tzu Chi Great Love Cafeteria was launched on November 23, 2021.

Initially designed to support children and the elderly, the project expanded its scope after social welfare officials suggested reaching out to more vulnerable groups. This inclusive approach transformed the "Children’s Cafeteria" into the "Great Love Cafeteria," ensuring that anyone in need within the community could find a warm meal and peace of mind.

A creative approach to sustainability

As the Great Love Cafeteria entered its fifth year, volunteers looked for ways to deepen their commitment to environmental protection. While they had previously used plant-based disposable containers, they wanted to implement a truly zero-waste system. In July 2022, they proposed the idea of reusable lunchboxes to the residents, who responded with overwhelming support. Many residents even labeled their personal containers to help volunteers manage the distribution.

By November 2025, the team began a formal transition period, leading to the full implementation of reusable lunchboxes in January 2026. To complement this shift, sewing instructor Chia-Jung Lin (林佳蓉) found a creative way to repurpose materials. She took elastic bands from surplus face shields leftover from the pandemic and combined them with fabric scraps to create colorful, handmade lunchbox bands. These bands not only secured the containers but also embodied the spirit of "making the best use of everything."

Stitched with care

To meet the demand for hundreds of bands, Chia-Jung rallied students from her sewing class. "At first, it wasn't easy, and the first few were a bit messy," she admitted with a smile. "But once I found the rhythm, it became much faster. Practice makes perfect." She specifically used leftover trimmings from her regular bag-making projects. "These represent Tzu Chi, so I wanted them to be beautiful. Those pieces of fabric I couldn't bear to throw away have finally found their best purpose."

Ang Lay Lay, a volunteer who joined the effort after seeing a message in their group chat, expressed her joy in participating.

I am so happy to be able to do something together. It is incredible how the teacher turned simple scraps into something so lovely.
—Ang Lay Lay, volunteer

Nourishment beyond the meal

The volunteers aim to provide more than just nutrition; they offer a sense of dignity and belonging. Kazuko, who discovered Tzu Chi online six months ago, walks nearly 30 minutes with the aid of a walker to reach the cafeteria. Despite her struggles with bone and joint pain in her neck and waist, she maintains a cheerful outlook.

"If I didn't have this walker, I wouldn't be able to walk properly," Kazuko said. "Walking here is actually very good exercise for me." She particularly recalled a meal of sweet potato rice with stewed tofu and radish. "At other places, the food is often fried and doesn't change much. I really treasure these vegetarian meals." When she received her new reusable box and handmade band, she was visibly moved by the craftsmanship.

Another regular, Kazuya, has been visiting for three years. He was surprised by the depth of flavor in meatless cooking. "I didn't think vegetarian food could be this delicious," he remarked. He also shared his appreciation for the winter relief distributions, noting his fondness for the cocoa powder mixed with milk and the savory vegan floss that he enjoys more than traditional natto.

A community connected by love

For the volunteers, the cafeteria is a place of shared responsibility and joy. Wen-Ching Chen (陳文青), the Shinjuku volunteer leader, noted that the project brings together both veteran and new volunteers.

We are all very happy to manage the Great Love Cafeteria together. Whether we are seasoned or new volunteers, we find ways to string love together. Being able to give to others makes us feel truly blessed.
—Wen-Ching Chen, Shinjuku volunteer leader

The transition to reusable lunchboxes on January 26, 2026, marked a milestone for the community. As residents held their warm meals secured by handmade bands, the atmosphere was one of mutual respect and gratitude. The initiative has proven that a simple change in a lunchbox can foster a deeper connection between people and the planet.

Written by Hui-Chen Wu (吳惠珍)