By Germany Relief Team (Originally in English)
Following the compassionate example and caring instructions of Supreme Master Ching Hai to help individuals in need, especially during the cold winter months, our Association members from Germany’s Hamburg Center contributed approximately €1,000 for relief efforts, with funds available from Master for reimbursement. We purchased 50 blankets, 50 warm shirts, 50 warm jogging pants, 100 pairs of underwear and 100 pairs of socks for homeless friends in our area. The items were then packaged along with flyers containing information on the benefits of the vegan diet and a relief team was formed.
After inquiring about the best places to distribute the packages, the team learned that each Sunday morning many homeless and less fortunate people gather at the Evangelical Reformed Church in downtown Hamburg for a free breakfast served by the non-profit organization Hilfspunkt e.V.
When the team arrived at the church on the morning of December 14, some people were already waiting there for breakfast. After hearing that we had prepared gifts of clothing and blankets for them, they were surprised and immediately came to our table. Each person was given the items they requested, and in a short time all the goods were distributed. The people were overjoyed to have received the gifts during the holiday season, with some saying “Good” and showing us the thumbs-up sign.
Dr. Gabriele Franz, director of Hilfspunkt e.V., was also delighted that we had come and was surprised and happy with the quality of the items for the people, who she said really needed help.
Expenditures by The Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association
for Cold Weather Relief Work in Hamburg, Germany
Description | Amount (EUR) | Receipt |
---|---|---|
Blankets, material for clothing, knitted garments, socks, plastic bags | 955 | A,B,C |
Total | EUR955 (US$1,260) |
Throughout the relief operation, the team members paid for their own transportation, food and accommodation.