By Hong Kong News Group (Originally in Chinese)
With loving concern for the homeless during the cold season, Supreme Master Ching Hai requested that our local Association members distribute winter supplies to those in need in Hong Kong and Sichuan Province, China, with financial support available for reimbursement.
Thus, in the early winter of 2012, our Hong Kong Association members contributed HK$11,780 (US$1,516) to the cause. With these funds we purchased blankets, overcoats, long undergarments, scarves, socks and other warm items, which we separated into packages for distribution to our homeless friends and disadvantaged families.
We conducted distribution efforts before Christmas and the Chinese Lunar New Year. Most of the homeless individuals slept under overpasses in the districts of Sham Shui Po and Yau Ma Tei. These noble souls spoke few words and showed little emotion, but on receiving the packages, their gratitude was evident as they immediately put on the overcoats and wrapped themselves in the blankets, respectfully acknowledging the kindness offered.
Our Association members also assisted those in the Ganzi area of Sichuan Province, China. Around the time of the Chinese Lunar New Year 2013, our relief team distributed blankets and overcoats to 28 disadvantaged families and eight orphans, and also gave some funds to help support families in need, especially those with sick and elderly members.
Although they were unaware of who was promoting this caring activity, the recipients knew that the loving assistance ultimately came through God’s grace and blessing. It was an honor for us to be a part of helping our fellow brethren.
Expenditures by The Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association for
Winter Relief Work in Hong Kong and Sichuan Province, China
Description | Amount (Hong Kong Dollar HKD) | Receipts |
---|---|---|
Winter clothing (blankets, overcoats, scarves, trousers, undergarments and socks) | 6,730 | A |
Vegan cookies | 550 | B |
Blankets and overcoats (to help the disadvantaged in Si Chuan) | 4,500 (RMB 3,600) |
C |
Total | HKD 11,780 (US$1,516) |
Our Association members paid for their own transportation during the relief work.