By Calgary Relief Team (Originally in English)
Winter is a difficult time for the homeless, especially in Canada where temperatures can reach minus 18 degrees to minus 20 degrees Celsius. Inspired by Master’s loving instructions to comfort the less fortunate in winter, with funds available if needed, on December 22 and 23, 2012, a group of our Association members from the Calgary Center prepared Christmas gifts to share with our homeless friends in the city’s downtown area. The gift items included sleeping bags, gloves and hats purchased with CAD 596 (US$604) in contributions from our Association members.
As our team drove around Calgary, we encountered many people living on the streets. We shared the gifts we prepared for them and wished our friendly brethren a “Merry Christmas from Supreme Master Ching Hai.” They were all quite surprised and happily received the items. They wished “Happy holidays” to Supreme Master Ching Hai and to us.
After completing our street distribution effort, we met the secretary of the charitable organization Food For Peace Society of Calgary, and contributed CAD 300 (US$304) for vegan food for 150 homeless people.
Throughout the relief effort, all of the homeless individuals we met were extremely kind. During this work we learned to always trust and rely on Supreme Master Ching Hai and to follow Her example of sharing unconditional love with those in need.
Expenditures by The Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association
In Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Description | Amount (CAD) | Receipt |
---|---|---|
Donation to Food For Peace Society of Calgary | 300.00 | A |
Sleeping bags and gloves for homeless | 295.55 | B |
Total | CAD595.99 (US$603.53) |