The Bali Food Project -- Honoring the Unseen People of Bali
Our Story
On my trip back to Bali on May 2021, I was moved by the impact of the pandemic on the people of Bali whose livelihood depended on tourism.
Over the years of my relationships with the people of Bali, they have given me the gift of their generous spirit, both personally and for the ongoing success of my business. I feel that this project is the gift I can give in return.
He and his closest friends mobilized to get food and basic supplies to the people in poverty. The real poor and hungry were usually older, often challenged in some way in life, and living in simple huts in remote mountains, far from neighbors and often without family.
Watch extended version of the project here: https://youtu.be/0J9d36-c4HU
Our Mission
Our mission for the Bali Food Project is to deliver food and care packages to the needy in communities that were hit the hardest by the pandemic. This project is truly about the richness of the possibility to share love and compassion, allowing each other into our lives, connecting with each other. This is our human birth right. This is where the very best of life happens.
Our Team
The engine that propels this project is the many wonderful and generous volunteers in Bali. They source, prepare and delivered the food and care packages to the people in need, directly to their homes, however remote. The lives of the recipients are made better for the moment, and the lives of these young volunteers are transformed through their journey. Their stories are shared below.
who we are
Tony Van Den Hout ~ Manager, Mentor & Photographer
Born in the Netherlands to a Dutch father and Indonesian mother, Tony has called Bali home since 1970. He is an accomplished healer, collector, seller of antiques, artist and brilliant photographer. He has shared a close friendship with David for nearly two decades. Together they started this project to help those in extreme poverty. He leads his team of volunteers to deliver good and basic supplies directly to the people in need.
David Alan BardwicK ~ Fundraiser
David...
From my more than 50 trips over the 20 years of coming to Bali, thanks to this project, I now feel even more connected to the beauty and the people of Bali.
Highlights of Bali Project
1,980 care packages delivered to families and elderlies since July 2021 to April 15, 2023
Story from David. Family of 5 kids
Care packages included rice, instant noodles, eggs, cooking oil, daily vitamins, masks for Covid protection, reading glass, soap, plastic tub, flip flops, sleeping mat, and blanket.
To reach the remote regions of Bali, where the need is the greatest, our volunteers hiked into dense jungle areas in the heat and humidity. During these arduous hikes, volunteers hand carried heavy bags of food and supplies.
An average of $2,300 per month is used for vehicle repair, gas, food for volunteers and hotel expenses.
Each person has a story to tell, but rarely do we hear a complaint. The stories are poignant, painful, and beautiful.
Story from David.....
We arrived at the small one-room homes of the people designated by the Balinese village elders to be in great need.
The Volunteers
Dika
Gembot/Ebik
Dika
I Komang Suardika (Dika) -- Driver & Crew
Dika was the first volunteer to join Tony on their first mission to deliver the first 100 parcels to those in need. This journey opened their eyes to people and communities who were in desperate need of food and basic essentials. In his words, "I'm humble in our work and honored to be able to help our fellow Balinese people."
Ajun
Gembot/Ebik
Dika
Koman Agus Juniatara (Ajun) -- Crew
Being part of this project, I have become more humble and learned so much about things I never saw even though they were in my daily life. For me, by helping others who need help I'm also helping myself grow into a better person.
Gembot/Ebik
Gembot/Ebik
Gembot/Ebik
Kadek Febrianto (Gembot/Ebik) -- Crew
As a crew member, I've discovered a part of me that I never knew. To see the pain and suffering of fellow Balinese was a shock to me. It made me appreciate all the things I have and take for granted (not anymore). I hope that being with this crew and getting a learning experience will help my life.
Mang Bagus
Mang Bagus
Gembot/Ebik
I Koman Adnyana Putra (Mang Bagus) -- Agent for Karagasem & Crew
It's an honor for me as a young educated Balinese to explore such hardships when I have none. But now I have, and it's not to be misplaced again. With all my strength and will power, I am ready to search the field for the real poor people who need our help
Di
Mang Bagus
Songol
I Wayan Edi Tosai (Di) -- Driver & Crew
"Om Swastyastu." I want to thank you, Tony and David, for this experience we are having, to bring help to those in need. I thank God also, that I got this opportunity to help fellow Balinese who are in a bad situation.We do this with happy hearts and no expectations. With all my shortcomings, I hope I have been of some help.
Songol
Mang Bagus
Songol
I Wayan Widiarta (Songol) -- Crew
At first I wasn't sure if I could fit in and do the work, but I'm glad I joined the team. it made me see another side of Bali I wasn't aware of. When I visited this old lady and she told me the last good meal she had was 3 days ago. It made me cried and feel blessed that I have so much and can help those who have less.
Make a contribution
We would be grateful and honored to have your contribution, either by taking on one set of 100 care packages, or by giving whatever you can so this work can continue. It is a rare opportunity to be able to affect directly so many lives.
Thank you for your support.
