2024 projects

November

11/23 delivery Meals in DC downtown

11/20 delivery Baskets to Victim Services Division Fairfax County Police Department

11/16-17 Harvesting Hope: A Thanksgiving of Unity and Compassion

This Thanksgiving, we’re uniting to bring hope and warmth to families in need throughout our communities. On November 16, we’ll be preparing and delivering Thanksgiving meals for 35 families in Baltimore, MD, who are struggling to make ends meet. The following day, November 17, our efforts will extend to support 12 families through the Fairfax Victim Services Program. Our dedicated Teen Group has invested countless hours organizing fundraisers, shopping, and packing to make this possible, ensuring these families receive not only nourishing meals but also the reassurance that they’re supported during difficult times.
For these families, the holidays can often highlight the challenges they face. By participating in our Thanksgiving packing drive, you’re doing more than providing food—you’re extending hope and compassion. Your involvement could be the difference between a family spending Thanksgiving in solitude and one gathered around a warm meal, feeling valued and remembered.
Whether you join us to pack, donate supplies, or offer support in any way, every gesture makes a meaningful impact. Let’s remind these families that they’re part of a caring community, and together, we can bring light into their lives this season. Join us in making Thanksgiving a time of love, unity, and community support.


11/7 A Warm Winter’s Light: Dr. Tseng Bringing Warmth and Hope to Baltimore Families

As winter’s bitter cold settles over Baltimore, many families are struggling with the harsh reality of no heating at home and limited access to transportation. In the face of these challenges, the manager of Baltimore’s YMCA—a warm and compassionate woman—has become a beacon of hope. She has long been dedicated to helping these children and families, ensuring that, despite the difficult weather, they arrive at school on time, safe, warm, and ready to learn, paving the way for a better future.
This winter, AYI CAN HELP has joined hands to collect and distribute coats and blankets for families in need. For these children, these essentials are more than just items; they’re lifelines during the freezing nights. The dedicated volunteers at AYI CAN HELP make sure the children are warmly dressed and well-fed as they head to school each morning, helping them focus on their education and future without the distraction of cold or hunger.
These winter blankets and coats represent more than just physical warmth—they symbolize support and care. Through AYI CAN HELP, these children are not forgotten in their family’s hardships but instead given the same opportunity as their peers to learn, grow, and embrace a brighter future.


October

10/31 The Aspirations of 200 Young Women at the PALBAR LING Center in Myanma

The PALBAR LING Center in Myanmar is a crucial sanctuary for young girls, providing a stable home, educational opportunities, and vital support. Amid Myanmar’s recent political instability and post-pandemic economic struggles, PALBAR LING discovered that many children now face not only food shortages and limited educational access, but also the serious risk of human trafficking. For these young girls, a safe and nurturing environment is essential as they strive to meet basic needs like food and shelter. With poverty deepening these challenges, PALBAR LING is committed to ensuring they receive proper nutrition and an education that can lead to a brighter future.

In response, AYI CAN HELP has contributed a total of $2,400 in November and December to support PALBAR LING’s charitable efforts, helping to provide food, warmth, and a peaceful learning environment. Over the years, PALBAR LING has worked tirelessly to create these opportunities, currently supporting 102 children in Bangladesh (including 50 young monks and 52 other children) and 33 young women in Myanmar.

Although the living conditions for these young residents remain challenging, PALBAR LING is determined to improve their quality of life. Plans are underway to construct a new dormitory, classrooms, and additional essential facilities. Every donation, no matter the size, makes a meaningful impact. If you would like to help these children find stability and safety, free from fear, we warmly invite you to contribute. http://www.palbarling.org/


10/11 Nourishing Dreams: A Small Snack, A Big Step Toward a Brighter Future

AYI volunteers Dr. Lin made a heartfelt journey to deliver after-school snacks to children in need, hoping to inspire kids from underprivileged villages to stay in school. For many of these children, a simple snack means much more than just food—it represents the chance to avoid hunger, focus on their studies, and dream of a brighter future. With each snack delivered, AYI volunteers reminded these kids that their community believes in their potential and stands beside them as they work toward a better life. By ensuring they have the nourishment they need, we’re helping them take another step toward their dreams, proving that even small acts of kindness can make a profound difference in shaping futures.


September

9/29 A Story of Compassion from Jumbo Jumbo Restaurant

In Rockville, MD, Ms. Cathy, the generous owner of Jumbo Jumbo Restaurant, is loved not only for her delicious Taiwanese cuisine and bubble tea but also for her kindness. Known for helping those in need, Cathy has long supported AYI by donating food for their charitable efforts.
Recently, when a FedEx delivery error left AYI’s volunteers without a donation for a local teen shelter, Cathy immediately stepped in. She provided two large trays of her famous fried chicken noodles, which AYI’s volunteers picked up and delivered alongside other donations. Despite the unexpected journey from Rockville, MD, to McLean and then Vienna, VA, the volunteers handled the challenge without hesitation.
Through Cathy’s generosity and the volunteers’ dedication, the teens received not only vital donations but also a warm meal. Their actions highlight the power of community, showing how compassion can turn even tough situations into moments of hope and belonging.


9/28 Teens of Hope: A Gift of Kindness for Second Story Shelter

I’m excited to share some wonderful news!

Our 2024 Teen Leadership group, driven by compassion and determination, has come together to support teens in crisis at Second Story.

It all began with a shared sense of empathy. After learning about the shelter’s needs, our teens felt a strong responsibility to act. Their unwavering kindness and dedication brought them closer to their goal.
These donations aren’t just items — they’re symbols of hope, gathered by teens who believe in a brighter future for everyone. Each one reflects care, love, and the belief that every teen deserves to feel safe and supported.
We hope these contributions bring comfort and possibility to the teens at Second Story.



9/22 AYI Fuels Bright Futures at Need Base India with Breakfast and Back-to-School Supplies for 84 Girls

Need Base India is a girls-only orphanage run by a nonprofit organization in Bangalore, India. It currently houses and supports 84 girls under the age of 18. Upon turning 18, the program offers professional training to help the girls pursue their career goals.

On September 22, 2024, AYI contributed by providing breakfast and essential stationery supplies to all the residents.


Aug

Our mission is to ensure that every student in need receives essential school supplies before the new school year begins. This year, our teens once again rose to the occasion, dedicating their vacation time to make a difference. Stella W. and Erin L. spearheaded our efforts, leading fundraisers and forging partnerships with local restaurants. Despite the challenges posed by COVID, Stella W. went the extra mile, personally delivering meals to seniors and teens in shelters, making sure they were well-nourished and ready for the school year. Behind these teens were countless adults who quietly supported their efforts, contributing to a cause they believe in.

This year, we invested nearly $20,000 to provide critical support to students both abroad and in the USA, ensuring low-income families had the school supplies and meals they needed during these trying times. These achievements were only possible thanks to the generosity and collaboration of various groups and individuals who came together to make a real impact.
This story highlights the power of community and the profound effect of compassion. We invite you to join us in continuing this important work, knowing that every donation and act of support helps brighten the lives of those who need it most.

Funding for this initiative is made possible by a diverse group of donors, with heartfelt thanks to the Ou Family Foundation. Professor Ou’s steadfast support has been instrumental in the success and growth of Ayi Can Help, enabling us to continue providing educational opportunities for young refugees and helping them build brighter futures. We are grateful for your trust and support and look forward to creating even more positive change together.


8/17 Amidst Adversity: Delivering Essential Supplies and Hot Meals to Little Sisters of the Poor in DC and The Second Story shelter in Fairfax VA

On August 17th, amidst a challenging economic environment, our dedicated AYI volunteers will embark on a crucial mission to support those in need. Before noon, four vehicles will set out from local restaurants to pick up food and emergency medical supplies for the Little Sisters of the Poor in Washington, D.C. These supplies are destined for elderly individuals who are orphaned and vulnerable, as well as the devoted nuns who care for them.

Despite the tough economic conditions, our volunteers are committed to making a difference. They understand that in times of hardship, empathy and support become even more vital. Their efforts are driven by the belief that no one should face hunger or neglect, regardless of the economic climate.


In the afternoon, our work continues as we deliver meals and urgently needed items to the Second Story House in Fairfax, VA. This organization provides crucial support to low-income families and individuals in need.
Even in the face of adversity, our volunteers are working tirelessly, embodying the spirit of “sharing the burden” and showing that compassion can shine through even the darkest times. Their actions are a testament to the strength of community and the profound impact of coming together to support those who are marginalized and struggling. Through their selfless efforts, they are providing not only essential resources but also a reminder that there is still hope and kindness in our world.

8/16 Sharon Cheng and Tech Innovators: Igniting Hope Through a Heartfelt Back-to-School Mission in Seattle, WA

This year, Mrs. Sharon Cheng, one of our dedicated volunteers, took on the essential task of organizing the back-to-school initiative for those in need in Seattle, WA. With great care and commitment, she spent countless hours coordinating the packing event and working closely with the refugee center to ensure timely delivery.

A group of young professionals from a high-tech company also generously gave their time, setting aside a day from their busy schedules to make a difference. Together, they packed backpacks filled with school supplies, each item chosen to ease the burden on students preparing for the new school year. When they delivered the backpacks to the Refugee Women’s Alliance, their bright smiles and spirit of camaraderie filled the room with hope.

This day of service was a beautiful reminder of the power of giving back. Despite the demands of their careers, these young adults showed that compassion and community spirit can have a lasting impact.
We are deeply grateful to the Ou Family Foundation for their ongoing support. Their generosity, along with the dedication of volunteers like Mrs. Cheng, allows us to continue providing educational opportunities for young refugees, helping them build brighter futures. Thank you for being part of this journey with us, and we look forward to creating even more positive change together.


8/16 Stella Wang’s Compassionate Response: Swift Action to Support Underprivileged Teens

Teen leader Stella has taken on a heartwarming and impactful role in our charity work. She has partnered with our previous Teen leader, AnnChing, to host a back-to-school packing project for 2024, aimed at helping those in need. While AnnChing focuses on collecting donations, Stella skillfully organizes the packing, distribution, and delivery of the supplies to underprivileged groups.

During one of her deliveries to the Teen shelter, Stella noticed an urgent request on their website. Without hesitation, she took it upon herself to gather, purchase, and deliver the much-needed items, ensuring that the shelter could support the teens in their care. Her quick and compassionate actions have made a significant difference in the lives of those who need it most.

Volunteers Tehlin L and Zoe C are organizing the transportation of donations to Car and preparing them for delivery to the Teen shelter.

Teen leader Stella Wang is picking up donations and delivering them to the Teen shelter.

The second story representative receives the donations.

8/12 From Seeds of Compassion to Blossoming Legacy: Former Teens Leading Charitable Efforts on the West Coast, Seattle WA

Our Teen Program has sown the seeds of compassion and charitable spirit in many young lives, and we are now witnessing that legacy flourish on the West Coast. Former members of our program are actively leading charitable initiatives in dynamic cities like Seattle, WA, demonstrating that the power of giving continues to resonate and inspire across generations.

These young adults have come together to give back to their communities, focusing on supporting refugee children and providing them with hope and opportunities for a brighter future through education. Their dedication not only continues the tradition of kindness but also helps these children break free from poverty and create positive change in their lives.

8/11 Empowering Futures: Delivering Backpacks, School Supplies, and Essential Items to Second Story in Fairfax, VA

The second story house is a place about empowering vulnerable 2nd-12th graders and their families with crucial support, including after-school homework help, life skills training, and safe havens. They do have a drop-in services also extend assistance to their families, ensuring a robust and comprehensive support system.

For over 12 years, AYI CAN HELP has been unwavering in its commitment to supporting children as they prepare to return to school. We don’t just focus on providing a quality education; we are also dedicated to meeting urgent needs by donating essential items requested on the second story house website (https://www.second-story.org/immediate-needs/).

Our mission is to equip teenagers to tackle life’s challenges head-on and envision a brighter future. We want them to know that there are people out there who genuinely care and are cheering them on, encouraging them to keep pushing forward toward a better, more promising life.

8/9 Resilient Giving: Delivering Hope and School Supplies to Holabird School , Baltimore MD Amid Hurricane Debby

On August 9th, amid Hurricane Debby’s severe storms, our volunteers ( WaneJane and Minching couples) stood steadfast in their commitment to the children of low-income families in Baltimore, MD. Despite the raging weather, they delivered backpacks filled with essential school supplies to the service center, embodying hope and support for those in need.

Understanding the critical role education plays in offering opportunities, our volunteers knew these supplies could empower children to start the school year with confidence. Inside the storm’s fury, a powerful sense of community prevailed. The backpacks reached their destination, not just as items but as symbols of care and encouragement.

This act of perseverance and kindness amidst adversity highlights the unwavering dedication of those striving to make a positive impact. Together, we are lighting the path for these children, equipping them with both tools and hope for a brighter future.

8/9 Braving the Storm: Delivering Hope and School Supplies to Fairfax County’s Victim Services Division, Virginia

On August 9th, as Hurricane Debby unleashed severe storms across the region, Fairfax County Virginia was preparing for the new school year. Despite the challenging weather, our dedicated volunteers ( Henry, Stela, Yen and MayJune) braved the wind and rain to fulfill a promise—delivering backpacks to the Victim Service Center. These backpacks were more than just school supplies; they were symbols of hope and support for the children in need.

Our volunteers knew how important it was for these kids to have what they needed to start the school year off right. They understood that education is a powerful tool in breaking the cycle of poverty, and nothing—not even a hurricane—would stop them from ensuring that these children had the resources they needed.

Thanks to their unwavering commitment, the backpacks were successfully delivered to the center, where social workers could distribute them to the children who need them most. As the storm raged outside, inside, there was a sense of warmth and determination—a community coming together to support its most vulnerable members.

This act of kindness was a testament to the strength and compassion of those who are willing to go the extra mile, even in the face of adversity. Together, we are making a difference, one backpack at a time, helping these children return to school with confidence and the opportunity to build a brighter future.

8/4 Packing Day, DMV — Back to School with Heart: Overcoming Rising Costs to Empower Children in Need

On August 4th, we came together for the 2024 DMV Back to School packing event, dedicated to helping children in need. Despite inflation pushing up the cost of supplies by more than 20%, we were unwavering in our commitment to these kids. We know how vital education is in breaking the cycle of poverty, and we wanted to ensure that every child had the tools they needed to start the school year with hope and confidence. Even in the face of rising costs, our hearts were set on making a difference, because every child deserves a chance to succeed.

July

7/1 Holabird School: A Summer Lifeline for Baltimore’s Needy Children (in memory of Mr. Chin Sen Tu)

During the summer, Holabird School in Baltimore becomes a safe haven for needy children. With nowhere else to go, these kids rely on the center not just for shelter, but also for a bite to eat. Our snack deliveries provide them with the nourishment they need to beat hunger and stay healthy during these challenging months.

June

6/17 A Beacon of Hope: Ms. Leung’s Gift Transforms Education for Sierra Leone’s Children

Ms. Yee Shuen Leung, along with her family and friends, recently made a generous donation of $1,000 to Education for Hope (https://www.educationforhope.org/). This remarkable group is dedicated to promoting education in Sierra Leone as a crucial pathway out of poverty and towards improved well-being. In a country where educational resources are extremely limited, their mission is vital.


Education in Sierra Leone faces significant challenges, and many children lack access to essential learning materials. Ms. Leung’s donation will help provide these resources, offering a glimmer of hope to children who are otherwise left in the dark. Each $20 donation can cover a month’s worth of food for a teenager and support their education at CITY School, helping them to continue their journey toward a better future.

Ms. Leung is passionate about ensuring that every child, regardless of their circumstances, has the opportunity for a brighter future through education. Her generosity is a powerful reminder of how even a small contribution can make a significant difference.

We encourage others to join in this noble cause. Your support can transform lives by providing educational materials and hope to children in need. Together, we can help these young learners break free from the cycle of poverty and see a world full of possibilities.

May

5/7 Guiding Light: Empowering a Mountain Child’s Path to Medical School( in memory of Mrs. Hui-Hsiang K Wu)

Amid the rugged terrain and challenging conditions of a mountain village, where access to resources is limited and opportunities are scarce, we have the privilege of making a profound difference in one young life. Our continued sponsorship of a medical school housing grant for this remarkable child represents not just a financial contribution, but a commitment to fostering hope and realizing dreams.
This student, hailing from a community where the prospect of higher education is often a distant dream, has shown exceptional determination and resilience. With the support of our sponsors, this dream is now within reach. The housing grant will provide essential stability, allowing them to focus on their studies without the burden of financial stress.

Education is a powerful tool for change, and by investing in this young student’s future, we are not only supporting their academic journey but also empowering them to become a beacon of hope for others in their community. This sponsorship is a testament to the transformative impact that collective generosity and compassion can have.

As Wu family continue to support this child’s path to becoming a medical professional, we celebrate the profound difference that thoughtful and sustained assistance can make. Together, we are nurturing a future where dreams are realized, barriers are overcome, and a brighter, healthier world is within reach for all.

April

4/24 Snack Deliveries for Needy Kids After School at Holabird School in Baltimore MD

In many underprivileged areas, educational resources are scarce, and teachers often find themselves spending an average of $673 out of their own pockets each year just to provide essential classroom supplies. Despite these challenges, AYI CAN HELP is doing everything possible to support low-income communities, working hand-in-hand with social workers to provide after-school snacks that help children fight hunger. As the new school year quickly approaches, let’s come together to support educators across the DMV area. With our collective efforts, we can ensure these kids receive the quality education they need to break the cycle of poverty and build a brighter future.

February

2/13 Uniting for Change: Supporting Education and Combating Hunger in Underserved Communities

Before you throw away those old household items and furniture that are still in good condition, consider this: in Baltimore, there are people who can’t afford the appliances and winter clothing that you might be discarding. What may seem like clutter to you could be a lifeline to someone else.
We encourage you to take a moment to clean and organize your gently used appliances and warm clothing before you decide to part with them. Instead of throwing them away, please consider donating them to the Baltimore Community Center. Your items could make a world of difference to families in need, providing warmth and comfort during the cold months or simply making daily life a little easier.
By choosing to donate, you’re not just clearing out space in your home—you’re giving your items a second life and helping to support a community that could truly benefit from your generosity. Let’s work together to reduce waste and bring a little warmth and hope to those who need it most.

2/12 Snacks and Used Items Donation Delivery for Baltimore Schools MD

2/10 Lunar New Year Cheer: Delivering Warmth and Joy to the Little Sisters of the Poor in D.C.

There is a special group of angels known as the Little Sisters, who have come from all corners of the world to serve those most in need in our nation’s capital. These dedicated women have been sent to Washington, D.C., to care for low-income, homeless elderly individuals, providing them with a safe and comforting place to call home.

On the first day of the Lunar New Year, a time traditionally filled with joy and family, volunteers came together to show their support for these elderly residents and the devoted sisters who care for them. With the generous backing of volunteers, traditional Lunar New Year dishes, desserts, and red envelopes were provided through a local Chinese restaurant, bringing a taste of home and the warmth of the season to those who often feel forgotten.

This act of kindness was more than just a meal; it was a heartfelt wish for happiness and a reminder that they are loved and cared for by many. We extend our deepest blessings to these homeless elders and the angelic sisters who selflessly serve them, wishing them all a joyful and blessed Lunar New Year. May they always feel the warmth of our care and the embrace of a compassionate community.