0
0
Vienna, Austria — More than 120 homeless and hungry brothers and sisters found warmth, food, and community at the Saint Mutter Teresa von Calcutta Center in Vienna, continuing a heartfelt Christmas tradition that began 24 years ago with one Filipino’s simple act of compassion.
The initiative started when Mr. Wilson “Bebot” Tan Ho, a Filipino living in Vienna, decided to cook and personally serve meals to people experiencing homelessness. What began as a small gesture has grown into an annual Christmas mission of generosity, now known as “Regalo ni Wilson Bebot Tanho.”
This year’s Christmas volunteers included Cathy, Mischel, and Hr. Günther, who joined hands to prepare and distribute meals. Before the food was served, one of the sisters from the center led a prayer, grounding the gathering in gratitude and hope. She then proudly introduced the Filipino group whose long-standing commitment has become a cherished part of the center’s holiday season.
For many guests, the meal is more than nourishment—it is a moment of dignity and human connection. Volunteer Alex Chiong reflected on the emotional weight of the day, noting, “It’s not easy to go hungry. Homeless brothers and sisters tend to be aggressive, so desperate to ask for more food for their next meal, for their comrades.” His words underscored the daily struggles faced by those living on the margins.
Despite the challenges, the atmosphere at the center was filled with warmth, respect, and the unmistakable spirit of Christmas giving. For nearly a quarter of a century, Wilson Tan Ho’s tradition has stood as a reminder that compassion can ripple outward—across cultures, across borders, and across generations.
As the Saint Mutter Teresa von Calcutta Center closed its doors for the evening, volunteers and guests alike carried with them the quiet joy of a shared meal and the enduring hope that no one is forgotten during the Christmas season.
-Hector Pascua/pictures: Alex Chiong
This post has already been read 10 times!
