Contemporary version of five loaves and two fish— sharing love through food distribution

Wednesday, August 05 2009 00:00

When Steve Wang, the president of River of Life Foundation, walked into the Food Pantry the other day, a petite lady with big sun glasses stepped toward him.  She then took off her sun-glasses, and a huge bruise on the left eye caught his attention. Her eyes were welled-up with tears.

Nancy is a frequent “visitor” here.  At least twice every month she would come over the food pantry to pick up food and clothing provided for low-income families. In the past two days, she has endured domestic violence by her son. Even with the bruise on her eye, she still comes here. “It is because I feel there is love here,” she said.  She used to come here for the food and clothing, but now she comes here for a more important reason—she feels loved, respected, accepted and understood.

The Food Pantry of River of Life Foundation is located next to River of Life Christian Church in Santa Clara. “There were only myself and another volunteer at the beginning. We purchased all the food in Costco ourselves,” says Steve Wang, recalling the situation when Food Pantry first started in 2007.

The two of them faithfully waited for “customers” at the Food Pantry every Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday, but very few people showed up and asked for help.

Despite the turnout, the determination to help those in need in the community was not thwarted. One year later, ROLF’s Food Pantry obtained the recognition of Second Harvest Food Bank, becoming one of their three food distribution centers in the city of Santa Clara, receiving food delivered by them on a regular basis. The operation expanded to serve all residents in need living in the zip code 95054.

In addition to packaged, canned and frozen food, ROLF also welcomes the donation of used clothing in good condition.  President Wang says they are also working on the possibility of providing fresh produce in the future.

While Nancy came in with teary eyes earlier today, she left with a cream-color vase in her hands and much relaxed steps after chatting with the volunteers and helping tidying up the good. Tears have been replaced by smiles.

The mission of Food Pantry is to serve the community. It can also serve as a good avenue for teenagers to volunteer for community service. Nowadays, many parents may think their children don’t feel content and appreciative about what they have. Volunteering in the Food Pantry can be a good way for kids to get a glimpse of the lives of those who are less fortunate.

If you want to bring hope and warmth to those in need through tangible giving, loving acceptance and respect, you are more than welcome to join us.