The Supreme Master Ching Hai
By Formosa Relief Team (Originally in Chinese)
During the late night of July 31, 2014, underground gas pipeline explosions in Kaohsiung, Formosa, devastated a densely populated area of three square kilometers, causing 32 deaths and 321 injuries. The blasts destroyed homes and damaged approximately 4.4 kilometers of urban roads.
When our loving Master learned about this tragedy, She immediately instructed our Association members to organize a relief effort. On August 1, our relief team of over 20 people from Kaohsiung Center, with a contribution of TWD 351,550 (US$11,716) from our Association members, quickly went to various shelters and relief centers to express our condolences, providing vegan lunches, mineral water and sports drinks.
On August 2, we visited over 20 injured victims to convey Master’s loving care. Later we visited many hospitals and offered TWD 5,000 to each of the 28 people with severe injuries and TWD 3,000 to each of the 39 with minor injuries. To the surviving families of six firefighters who lost their lives while selflessly protecting others, we contributed TWD 10,000 to each, with Master’s deep condolences.
During this disaster relief, we witnessed the compassion and the warmth of the Formosan people. Many artists, businesses and individuals provided donations that totaled TWD 4.48 billion. Road restoration in the disaster area was completed after three months and the traffic was resumed on November 20. May all those affected by this unfortunate event be blessed with God’s love and comfort.
Expenditures by The Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association for Gas Explosion Relief Work in Kaohsiung, Formosa
| Description | Amount (TWD) | Receipt |
|---|---|---|
| Cash contribution to the affected people | 317,000 | A |
| Drinks for shelters and relief centers | 34,550 | B |
| Total | TWD 351,550 (US$11,716) |
