Love In Action

Master is always deeply concerned when disasters occur in any part of the world. Upon hearing news of such events, She immediately provides financial assistance and sends relief teams. Through such efforts, Her unconditional love and support are conveyed to those affected, thus reducing their suffering while helping them to rebuild their lives.

In recognition of the selfless actions of governments, organizations and relief workers around the globe, Master expresses Her gratitude as follows: "Thank you, all the international help that brings care and necessities to afflicted victims. Thank you all the relief workers for taking time and forsaking your own comfort, even traveling great distance on unfavorable roads and conditions to bring love and assistance to people in a time of need. May Heaven bless you abundantly for your generosity and noble sacrifice."

2024年12月21日, 週六

    Warm Gifts for Less Fortunate Brethren in Vancouver, Canada

    By Vancouver Relief Team (Originally in English)

    With deep concern for vulnerable individuals during the cold winter months, Supreme Master Ching Hai lovingly asked our Association members to help ensure that those in need stay warm, with funds available for reimbursement. During the winter of 2012-13, members of our Association relief team from Vancouver, Canada collaborated with the city’s Covenant House to help the less fortunate who had to endure the bitter cold outdoors or were able to take refuge in shelters.

    Covenant House is funded by a Catholic priest who, 35 years ago, saw the need to provide shelter and other services to Vancouver’s at-risk youth. Its primary focus is to assist those who often do not have outside support in leaving unfavorable situations or to help young people who are no longer able to remain living at home. According to its website, “more than 1,500 street–involved youth come to Covenant House Vancouver each year to find sanctuary and a brighter future.” In addition, Covenant House staff members regularly visit at-risk youth on the streets to offer sandwiches and support.

    After purchasing supplies with CAD$8,683.44 (US$8455.64) in contributions from our Association members, and assembling gift bags containing blankets, toques (close fitting caps), scarves, jackets, gloves and thermal socks, the relief team distributed the items to those most in need. Then, on December 20, 2012, the team delivered 40 bags to Covenant House. On December 23, an additional 40 bags were taken to The Front Room, a drop-in center operated by South Fraser Community Services.

    With directions from the staff, the team gave the bags to men and women residing there. After leaving The Front Room, the team members distributed additional bags to a number of other people living on the streets, who happily accepted the unexpected Christmas gifts.

    The following week the remaining gift bags were taken to the extreme weather shelter operated by Ladner United Church in a suburb of Vancouver.

    Expenditures by The Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association
    for Cold Weather Relief Work in Vancouver, Canada

    Description Amount (CAD) Receipt
    Jackets, pants, and T-shirts 7686.00 A
    Hats, socks, blankets, hand warmers, emergency blankets, and others 997.44 B
    Total CAD 8683.44
    (US$8455.64)