Conversations on the Dock: Fua Masaniai, American Polynesian Organization
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Tell Us about your organization.
My name is Fua Masaniai, Moi Masaniai is my husband, and we are the couple that runs the American Polynesian Organization at the Beacon United Methodist Church. We started with our family in 2009 and the community joined in.
We serve hot meals every week on Tuesday from the morning to about 1-2 pm. We welcome anyone that walks through our doors, mostly seniors, many from the Filipino community. We have a food bank and host Zumba for the seniors to get exercise.
We’re also serving special bags, Polynesian bags, next week with foods like corned beef, tuna, coconut milk, vegetables, fruit, rice, and noodles for them to take and use as daily food for their family.
We were recognized by the city last month, we are so proud. We’re always looking to the people that need all of this. It doesn’t matter – all the chaos. This is what we do – we share, we care, we love, we partake and take care of one another.
What is your favorite part about running your organization?
To see people – how they’re smiling and happy and interacting with one another, and to receive what we’re providing for them. That’s the main thing.
What would say is your biggest challenge right now?
When people are not around, when there’s nothing to provide for them.
How did you decide to partner with Food Lifeline?
It’s very close to where we live, so I can come 3-4 times per week. We do Shop to Dock too. It’s been a blessing, Food Lifeline.