In Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association Relief News from Taiwan (Formosa)…
On April 3, 2024, a 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck the central east coast of Taiwan (Formosa) causing tremors that were felt throughout the entire island. It was the strongest quake to hit the island in 25 years. At least 16 people lost their lives and over 1,100 were injured, while hundreds were stranded due to road obstruction from landslides. More than 20 buildings were destroyed, with numerous structures that were also damaged.
Upon learning of this devastating event, our Most Beloved Supreme Master Ching Hai (vegan) requested: “Please arrange with accountants to give US$12,000 for the most in need victims. If need more, please advise. All my love and prayers for all afflicted to soon return to normalcy. Love in Godgrace.”
Upon receiving Master’s financial assistance, our Taiwanese (Formosan) Association members immediately commenced the relief work. On April 5, 2024, our Hualien Association members visited Songpu Village in Yuli Township to offer condolences to the family of a driver who had tragically passed away on the Suhua Highway during the earthquake. The family was presented with NT$20,000 (US$614) as a gesture of support for their bereavement, along with Master’s sample booklet and the book, “Love is the Only Solution.” “ Thank You, Supreme Master Ching Hai. Thank you for visiting us here.”
On April 5, 2024, the Xiulin Township Office contacted our Association members to request urgent supplies for Heping, Tianxiang, and Xibao villages. As many stores were closed on Saturday, our relief team immediately sought alternative sources of materials. Thanks to the full support of one manufacturer owner, a truck of supplies was delivered the same day to the Xiulin Township Chongde Elderly Association, located only 400 meters from a rockfall and landslide area of the quake. Commissioner Shih from the Township Office’s Social Affairs Section, along with two counselors, were on site to assist in unloading supplies. These included hygiene materials, mineral water, several types of vegan noodles, white rice, vegetable oil, salt, soy sauce, various canned fruits and vegetables, vegan melon seed meat, eight-treasure porridge, and vegan biscuits. “ Thank You to Supreme Master Ching Hai.”
On April 6, 2024, our Association members went to Kangle Village in Xincheng Township to convey sympathies to the family of a truck driver who had lost his life during the earthquake in the Ho Jen mining area. There, they presented NT$20,000 (US$614) as a condolence gift, along with Master’s sample booklet as well as a copy of “Love is the Only Solution.” “Thank you, everyone.” Our Association members also went to the Hualien Funeral Home to express condolences and present NT$20,000 (US$614) to another family whose relative had died in the earthquake while working on a slope of the Suhua Highway.
Our heartfelt appreciation goes to our Most Compassionate Master for Her boundless Love and Care for those affected by the earthquake. We also thank our Taiwanese (Formosan) Association members and all other relief teams for their dedicated efforts to help those in need. We extend our deepest sympathies to those who have suffered the loss of loved ones. May the quake-affected be swiftly and smoothly restored to the stability of their normal lives, in the abiding grace of the Buddhas.
