In an inspiring act of compassion and generosity, a group of 25 Grade 8 students from Morrison Academy partnered with SALT Collectiv and embarked on a mission to make a positive difference in their community. With their hearts filled with kindness, they dedicated their time and efforts to assemble 54 backpacks that would soon find their way into the hands of those less fortunate. The backpacks, carefully prepared and thoughtfully packed, held essential items to provide comfort and support to the homeless individuals at Taipei Main Station. Each backpack included a water bottle filled with refreshing water, a reflective space blanket for warmth, a rain poncho for protection against the elements, a hat to shield from the sun, two pairs of socks for comfort, and a small snack or nutritional bar to nourish both body and spirit. Through their selfless act, these young students exemplify the power of compassion and remind us all of the impact we can make by extending a helping hand to those in need. Read on for an encouraging student reflection on the experience. 

“Ever since I was a little girl, I have felt a certain calling towards serving the poor. When my 8th grade class partnered with SALT Collectiv, we had the opportunity of handing out backpacks filled with water, blankets, socks, hats, and rain ponchos to the less fortunate people living around the Taipei Main Station. It was wonderful to see my classmates connect with the people in a way I’d never seen before. I got the privilege of seeing a more mature and servant-hearted side of them. Because serving the marginalized isn’t a part of our everyday life, many of us had to step out of our comfort bubbles of running water and air conditioned rooms into a place of hunger and need. We also had to step out of our comfort zones of people we knew and step into a place of serving others; not because of things we liked about them, but because they were God’s creation. I’m so glad we were able to partner with SALT Collectiv not only because we were able to help the marginalized, but also because we were able to mature more into the caring young men and women God wants us to be.” – Anna Payk, Grade 8

SALT Collectiv invites you to join our cause. By partnering with us, your school can embark on their own journey of compassion and empathy. You can create your own care packages, raise funds to support our mission, or even organize collaborative events that bring people together for our common cause. Together, we can inspire the young minds of today to become compassionate leaders and create positive change in the world. Let’s join forces and make a real impact. Get involved with SALT Collectiv and be a part of something truly meaningful!

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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.