Taipei city helps the needy with 'food bank'

Restaurants in Taiwan's Taipei have come up with a novel idea to help the hungry. Not only does it help feed the poor, but also involves ordinary people in charity.

Helping another overcome hunger...

The idea of a suspended meal is simple: At participating restaurants, you can pay for your own meal as well as a second or third one, which can then be claimed later by someone in need.

"This is what we collected yesterday. We have a woman who donates 500 New Taiwan Dollars each month. Taiwan is a place full of love," restaurant owner Ms. Lin said.

Food bank is another organization providing free food for the poor. People can donate food to the "savings account" in the food bank and the bank will distribute the food package to someone in need.

"Every two months, we give them a food package. So they can save some money and invest on education or health care," said Chang Cianfang, director of 1919 Food Bank.

Founded two years ago, 1919 food bank has helped over eight thousand poor families. Many volunteers bring their families to work at the bank on weekends.

"It's a very healthy job. You can do it with your family and let them know you can help a lot of people," a volunteer said.

Suspended meal or food bank, all small and affordable ways of making a difference in the lives of other people.