Bringing Love to Those Affected by Mount Sinabung Eruption in Indonesia

By Medan Relief Team, Indonesia (Originally in Indonesian)

On May 21, 2016, Mount Sinabung, in the western province of North Sumatra in Indonesia, erupted, claiming nine lives and affecting 9,000 individuals or 443 families who were staying at the relief posts around the towns of Kabanjahe and Berastagi in Karo Regency, North Sumatra. The government distributed relief items; however, according to a media report, still more assistance was needed. The displaced citizens have stayed at the relief centers for years because of the constant threat of eruption of Mount Sinabung.

Upon hearing the news, our Association members in Medan and from other Centers in Indonesia contributed US$4,680 in relief funds to help the victims, following Supreme Master Ching Hai’s loving instructions to always render aid to those in need.

On May 27, part of our relief team went to Berastagi and Kabanjahe, which are approximately a 2.5 hour drive south of Medan, to learn which supplies were needed by the affected families. Accordingly, the remaining members in Medan quickly purchased and packed the supplies including various food items, daily necessities and some medicines.

On May 29, part of our team brought supplies to two relief posts in Berastagi and five in Kabanjahe. We also stopped by the Indonesian Army Post at Kabanjahe to deliver masks and vegan cookies for the soldiers who have worked hard to help the displaced individuals.

Thanks to Master’s grace and blessing, the mission was carried out smoothly. All members feel deeply grateful to Master for giving them a chance to serve others. May Heaven bless all families and individuals affected by the eruption with comfort, and we pray Mount Sinabung soon becomes stable so citizens staying in relief centers can establish new homes for themselves.

Expenditures by The Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association For Mount Sinabung Volcano Eruption Relief Work in Indonesia