For many Chinese migrant workers in Auckland, life in a new country brings heavy challenges. Language barriers, unfamiliar systems and financial pressures can leave them feeling isolated and overwhelmed. Starting over isn’t easy when every day feels uncertain.
Through the One Family Project, led by Auckland West Chinese Seventh-day Adventist Church with support from the Adventist Development and Relief Agency New Zealand, several workers and their families have found more than help—they’ve found belonging. What started as simple support has grown into a strong and vibrant community.
Since December 2023, the One Family Project has been offering free English classes, legal seminars, food parcels, weekly meals, job assistance and invitations to Sabbath worship and celebrations. It’s about meeting real needs with practical care—and doing it with heart and hospitality.
“We’ve already helped about 100 workers and their families,” says project leader Jane Chen. “It hasn’t always gone exactly to plan, but the impact is real. People feel seen, heard—and supported.”
One volunteer noticed a profound shift among participants: “They are more confident communicating in English now. You can see their stress easing.” Improved language skills mean greater opportunities to find work, support their families—and build a stable future in New Zealand.
The educational seminars have also played a key role in helping workers understand their rights and avoid exploitation—a risk many face in unfamiliar work environments. Being better informed gives them confidence and protection.
Beyond skills, the project offers simple but profound joys: shared meals, birthday celebrations, cultural festivals and new friendships. In small but meaningful ways, migrants are finding not just help, but hope.
The team admits the work has stretched them. “We underestimated how much time and energy this would take,” Jane reflects. “But we’ve been blessed with willing volunteers—and every effort is worth it.”
Through all the teaching, meals and support, the real gift the One Family Project offers is a glimpse of God’s love—kindness without strings attached, grace offered freely.
In a world where many feel invisible, this project reminds us that every small act of care plants seeds of hope—and that in welcoming strangers, we become the hands and heart of Christ.
