Get to know us

Ho Fan, Inc. is a completely volunteer-led organization dedicated to enriching lives by promoting cultural arts and championing food recovery efforts. Based in Wakefield, Massachusetts, and serving nearby communities, we strive to create a lasting impact through cultural education, sustainability, and community upliftment.

Our story began with a shared passion for tradition and a drive to make a difference. In 2022, a small group of dedicated parents, eager to keep the vibrant spirit of the Chinese Lion Dance and Martial Arts alive, came together with a vision. Among them was Coach Nick, a seasoned expert in Hung Gar Martial Arts (洪家拳), renowned for its role in the Chinese Lion Dance. Though retired from teaching, Nick was inspired to re-engage, not only to pass down this cultural treasure but also to inspire younger generations and foster acceptance and diversity within our community.

Meanwhile, another pressing issue surfaced: the waste of wholesome food in schools. In 2018, Parent volunteer Shyan witnessed firsthand the amount of untouched food being discarded during school lunches. Motivated to find a solution, she delved into the complexities of food recovery, uncovering a gap in awareness about regulations that allow safe food donation. Her research revealed that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and EPA actively encourage food rescue initiatives, sparking an idea that aligned perfectly with Ho Fan’s mission of community upliftment. Guided by our commitment to environmental stewardship in collaboration with the school district(s) and Board of Health, we launched initiatives to rescue surplus food, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and support those in need. These efforts not only prevent food waste but also promote sustainability and compassion in underserved communities and educational settings.

At Ho Fan, Inc., we believe that cultural understanding and environmental responsibility go hand in hand. Together, we can build a brighter, more sustainable future—one that benefits our children, our communities, and the planet.