In Apia, young members of the Seventh Day Adventist church at Nuu spent their Saturday morning distributing free meals to vulnerable individuals around town.
Carrying small containers of rice and curry, the youth group went around before sunrise, offering food to people who spend long hours on the streets or in front of buildings in the city.
Many of these individuals are often seen in the corners of shops, asking passersby for money. They are disconnected from the traditional rhythm of Samoan life, where people work the land, fish the sea, and support their families through village-based living. But times have changed. More people now depend on cash to survive, especially in urban areas, and the gaps in support systems are becoming more visible.
Some of those they met suffer from malnutrition and mental illness. Others are often ignored or mistreated because they are poor or visibly struggling.
What began as a simple food run became a moment of connection. After handing out meals, the group sat with the people they served, talked with them, and prayed with them.
One of the young organisers said their action was inspired by the verse in Hebrews 13:16 —
“Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.”
Their message was clear:
kindness does not require much. Just a pot of curry, a little time, and a willingness to see and treat others with love.
