SEAMAAC (Southeast Asian Mutual Assistance Associations Coalition) was born in 1984 with the purpose of supporting Southeast Asian refugees. Today, more than four decades later, its mission has expanded enormously: “Our mission is basically to help people, families, and communities that are economically, socially, and politically vulnerable, and truly help them thrive in Philadelphia, in Pennsylvania, and in the United States,” explains Thoai Nguyen, SEAMAAC’s CEO.
Funding comes from city, state, and federal contracts, private foundations, and individual donors, those who help fill the gaps left by the public system.
From a small group to a global community
What began as support exclusively for Asian refugees has evolved into inclusive services for all communities most in need. “Today, we serve anyone who needs a service or program we offer. They just must come in; we do an assessment, and we make no distinctions,” Nguyen says.
SEAMAAC serves refugees from Africa, Eastern Europe, Central America, South America, and Mexico. The philosophy is clear: to strengthen a community, you must serve all its members.
Programs that feed, educate, and protect
In response to the recent SNAP crisis and prolonged government shutdown, SEAMAAC reactivated its food security program, which now serves 1,500 families in South Philadelphia: “Many families were at risk of not being able to put food on the table,” Nguyen notes.
SEAMAAC also offers:
-Safe families, support for domestic violence survivors
-School absenteeism programs and tutoring for students
-English classes and digital literacy
-Public space revitalization and management of the South 7th Street commercial corridor
-Programs for elderly refugees
-The growing homes garden community farm, with more than 100 family plots
-Environmental justice and climate resilience initiatives
All of this is carried out with a small but committed team.
Stories that leave a mark
Amid so many services, some stories deeply touch the team. Nguyen recalls a family they supported through the naturalization process: “They came to the office to show me their naturalization papers and their voter registration. Seeing them so happy to become U.S. citizens and being able to vote… that stayed with me.”
Philly Gives: an unexpected boost
This year, SEAMAAC was selected by the philanthropic program Philly Gives news that surprised its director. “I was surprised… not because SEAMAAC doesn’t deserve it, but because the work we do is sometimes not recognized,” he confesses.
Although the organization is relatively small, with between 35 and 38 employees, SEAMAAC impacts between 8,000 and 12,000 people a year, many of whom are invisible to the system.
“We serve 2,000 people no one has heard of and who would not otherwise be assisted,” he states.
Relief in times of cuts
Federal cuts have hit organizations like SEAMAAC hard: “We lost 12 employees in eight months. Without them, we do the work of 50 people with only 38,” Nguyen explains.
Although there is not yet a defined plan for the Philly Gives funds, the support will help address the deficit and maintain operations: “For every dollar donated to SEAMAAC, 87 cents go directly to services for the people.”
Humility and generosity: the SEAMAAC spirit
When asked to describe the organization in one word, the team offered two: humility and generosity. Both reflect the daily work of an organization that serves not out of obligation but out of vocation.
Opportunities to serve
SEAMAAC invites the community to volunteer in beautification activities, garden preparation, events, and more. “Anyone can contact us and offer their time,” Nguyen says. Those interested in supporting the organization can visit their offices at 1711 S. Broad Street in Philadelphia or go to www.seamaac.org.
A growing challenge: poverty and hunger
The current landscape is concerning: “It is unacceptable for a child to go to bed hungry in the richest country in history,” the director says firmly.
SNAP cuts have pushed many families to the brink of economic collapse, forcing them to choose between rent, food, or heating. “The direction we are going in is tragic and unacceptable,” he warns.
A message for Philadelphia
Nguyen closes with a powerful reflection on the contribution of immigrants to the city: “Just speak with any immigrant, refugee, or asylum seeker to see their deep love and respect for Philadelphia. When you invest in SEAMAAC, you invest in the city’s economic and cultural vitality.”
He adds a phrase that captures the organization’s philosophy: “The money donated to SEAMAAC does not belong to us; it belongs to the people we serve.”
SEAMAAC has been selected to participate in this year’s Philly Gives campaign, which will take place from November 1 to December 31, 2025. All donations made through phillygives.org will go directly to the 10 nonprofit organizations chosen, ensuring that 100% of the funds raised support essential programs.