By Stacey Mattison

Welcome to the tales from the SALT Kitchen, where volunteers gather to lend a hand in preparing, packing, and delivering bento boxes to Taipei’s homeless community at the bustling Taipei Main Station. In May 2023, a group of students from the Taipei European School (TES) embarked on a unique journey of compassion and discovery as they stepped into the realm of volunteerism. These students, with little prior exposure to Taiwan’s homeless population, dove headfirst into the experience, igniting a spark of empathy and understanding within themselves. As they rolled up their sleeves and embraced the spirit of service, their perspectives shifted, and their hearts opened wide to the struggles of those they encountered. Join us as we delve into the reflections shared by these young volunteers, offering glimpses into the profound impact of their first-time experience at the SALT Kitchen.

Alessandro:

“I recently had the opportunity to participate in a trip organized by my school to work with the SALT Collectiv, an organization that provides support to homeless individuals. Our task for the day was to prepare bento boxes for those in need. The experience was eye-opening and humbling. Before the trip, I had not realized the big community of homelessness in our city. Working alongside them gave me a better understanding of the struggles faced by homeless individuals and the importance of community support. As we prepared the bento boxes, we worked as a team and learned new skills. It was satisfying to see the finished product, knowing that it would provide a meal to someone who might otherwise have gone hungry. Throughout the experience, I was struck by how a small act of kindness can have a big impact. Reflecting on the experience, I realized that this trip was not just about helping others but also about personal growth. It gave me the opportunity to step out of my comfort zone and work with people from different backgrounds. I learned to communicate effectively and work in a team. I also developed a greater sense of empathy and compassion towards those less fortunate than myself. Overall, this trip was a valuable experience that allowed me to engage with the community and make a positive impact. It taught me the importance of serving others and the benefits of stepping outside of my comfort zone. I look forward to participating in more activities that will allow me to continue to grow as a person and make a difference in the lives of others.”

Eugene:

“I have often gone with family on holidays, purposely ignoring the pleas of the homeless for money – much like normal people going about their daily lives. These people don’t matter to the majority because mainly, they have been told to not care and alienate them. Now that I care, I cannot simply just go back to ignoring them and this is how SALT changed me. We see the people who essentially gave up on themselves and are accepting the lunches just because of necessity but we also see the homeless who are still trying to build a living that makes this experience really worthwhile. In fact, writing this and calling them homeless sort of brings me some guilt as I now know that they are so much more than that. They are individuals who have been disregarded by society and their identities erased under the umbrella term of homeless. I know that I’ve learnt a lot from this experience, including how these nonprofit charities work from the inside after talking with the founder. A lot of this relies on the goodwill of people and to a certain extent, breaking the normal social boundaries and stigmatism associated with marginalized groups. One thing I found most fascinating was that despite being painted as dangerous and unsanitary by the rest of society there are still some people who are trying to get themselves out of a tough spot.”

Chang-Ling:

“We worked with SALT Collectiv to prepare lunch for homeless people around Taipei Main Station. We helped prepare about 100 meals for the SALT Kitchen. I helped wash the oranges and the bananas, I carefully packed the bento boxes with a delicious and balanced meal. First, I added 160-170 grams of fluffy white rice to the bento box. Next, I added 80 grams of tender chicken into each bento box. With meticulous precision, I arranged the chicken pieces neatly over the bed of rice, creating a desirable display of flavors and textures. Moving on, the next person added some marinated cucumbers, half a boiled egg, some scallion pieces, and some sauce to go with the rice. The bento boxes are now complete and ready to be delivered. Accompanied by a small group of dedicated volunteers, we set out on foot, armed with our bento boxes and eager to make a difference. As we walked through the bustling streets, we encountered various homeless individuals, each with their own stories and struggles. We approached them with empathy and respect, offering them a bento box.  Each box contained a nutritious meal of rice, vegetables, protein, and a heartfelt note to uplift the recipients. Although not everyone wanted a bento box, we still asked to see whether they wanted it or not just in case. When they received the bento boxes, their smiles were so genuine and it was beaming with joy, they were so grateful to have received these wonderful bento boxes. We came across the same people a couple of times and asked them if they wanted more, and they said no because they already got it. Although they are often struggling to find food for themselves, they still know that there are other people in need and decided to be honest and care for others. It was a really heartwarming experience for me.  

 

Among the many interactions, one encounter stands out in my memory. I approached an elderly man sitting on a bench, weathered by the hardships of life. As I handed him a bento box, he looked up at me with eyes that held a mix of weariness and hope. By acknowledging the homeless individuals and treating them with dignity, we instilled a sense of hope and reminded them that they were not forgotten. Handing out bento boxes to homeless individuals was an experience that left an indelible mark on my heart. It taught me the power of empathy, compassion, and human connection. It made me realize that small gestures of kindness, no matter how seemingly insignificant, can bring immense joy and make a meaningful difference in someone’s life.”

As we draw the curtain on these reflections, one thing becomes abundantly clear: the power of serving others transcends boundaries and transforms lives. We extend a heartfelt invitation to all schools to join hands with SALT Collectiv in fostering a culture of compassion and empathy among our youth. Let us unite in providing opportunities for students to step out of their comfort zones, engage with their communities, and discover the profound joy of making a difference in the lives of others. To parents, we extend a warm invitation to bring your children, young or old, along on this journey of service. For in serving the less fortunate, we not only bless our community but also find ourselves changed for the better. Join us in the noble pursuit of building a brighter, more compassionate world—one act of service at a time.

 

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1.) How can I help the homeless in Taiwan?

SALT Collectiv hosts monthly volunteer opportunities to serve the homeless in Taipei, Taiwan through our SALT Soup Kitchens. By partnering with local restaurants, our volunteers help prepare, pack and deliver at least 150 warm bento boxes to the homeless community at Taipei Main Station. Volunteering with SALT Collectiv not only makes a lasting imprint for the vulnerable and marginalized, but also makes a lasting imprint in your heart. Be sure to stay updated on volunteer opportunities by following us on Instagram and Facebook, or checking our website.

 

2.) Can foreigners volunteer in Taiwan?

Yes! SALT Collectiv is a diverse international community of volunteers uniting for the purpose of making a lasting imprint for the vulnerable and marginalized. There are no prerequisites required to sign up for events and we welcome expats and locals alike to join our community. We ask only that you come with a heart to serve. When individuals come together, dedicating their time and talent to serve the marginalized, lives are touched and communities are transformed. In volunteering, you engage in causes bigger than yourself, cultivate meaningful relationships and positively impact your community.

 

3.) Is it possible to volunteer with children in Taiwan?

Yes! SALT Collectiv welcomes and encourages children of all ages to participate in our volunteer events. However, parents or sponsors will be solely responsible for the actions, behavior, and whereabouts of the children in their care.