Brussels, 10 December 2025: On the occasion of the 36th anniversary of the conferment of Nobel Peace Prize to His Holiness the Dalai Lama, staff members of the Office of Tibet Brussels volunteered their personal time for the first time at Restos du Coeur soup kitchen for the homeless and less fortunate in the city. They assisted in the preparation of warm meals and served them to those in need as an expression of gratitude and a commitment to giving back to the society in which they live and work during the global Year of Compassion in honor of the 90th birthday of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama.

Throughout the morning, staff members of Office of Tibet Brussels took part in the kitchen operations, setting up meal stations, and serving plates of warm and nutritious food to cleaning. Their presence brought not only extra helping hands but also a spirit of empathy and kindness that resonated throughout the facility.

The day concluded with a shared meal with the staff of Resto du Coeur and a discussion on future collaborative efforts. Both the participants and the soup kitchen leadership expressed enthusiasm for continuing similar initiatives, strengthening community bonds and offering sustained support to those who need it most.

Reflecting on the experience, Rigzin Genkhang, Representative of His Holiness at the Office of Tibet Brussels, said,” this initiative reflects the belief in leading by example and echoes His Holiness’ teachings on compassionate leadership, which continues to guide and inspire us”.

Alongside these efforts, Belgium Ghoton organising committee contributes financial support to Resto du Coeur that enables the serving of 50 meals each month during the Year of Compassion.

Staff at the soup kitchen expressed appreciation for the additional hands, and the consistent monthly meal donations, especially during a period of increased demand for food assistance, noting that such acts of compassion help sustain their mission and uplift the spirits of those they serve.

The Restos du Coeur plays a dual role: they distribute over 4500 warm meals and food packages daily in 21 locations to people in need in Belgium. But they also act as a Food Bank, distributing surplus food stocks to various other local associations so that they can feed those who are suffering economically just about everywhere in Belgium.