Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association relief news update from Myanmar, also known as Burma.
In mid-June, a major tropical storm in the Bay of Bengal caused flooding and landslides in Myanmar and neighboring Bangladesh. At least 70 people in these countries lost their lives, with dozens more missing as houses were found buried, and water-submerged roads impeded rescue efforts.

Conveying her deep condolences and prayers, Supreme Master Ching Hai asked that our Association members see if help was needed.

However, as it was not possible in Myanmar to go themselves, funds of US$6,080 were made available to send to an aid organization already working there. This amount could purchase US$235,000 in assistance if obtained in the United States, based on Myanmar's cost of living.

Our Association members in Myanmar entrusted the donation to the non-profit Burmese Muslim Association, Buthidaung Maungdaw Regional Development Association.

This organization was permitted by the Burmese government to deliver the aid, which consisted of 200 T-shirts with the words “Be Veg” printed on them, 200 envelopes containing cash assistance for urgently needed items, and the remaining donation for providing food to the storm victims.

The organization was only recently able to enter by boat the severely affected zone of Maungdaw District in Rakhine state, which borders Bangladesh, because the flood had ruined 29 bridges and isolated the area.

The Buthidaung Maungdaw Regional Development Association wrote the following letter of appreciation to Supreme Master Ching Hai:“We would like to appreciate your noble spirit to help the global population. We received cash and items worth six million Myanmar Kyats to donate to the needy people. We also respect your efforts to prevent global warming.”

Best wishes,U Shwe Maung Secretary International Affairs Committee Buthidaung Maungdaw Regional Development Association (Head Office) Yangon, Myanmar

VOICE: Our appreciation Mr. Maung and the Buthidaung Maungdaw Regional Development Association, for unconditionally delivering the needed assistance.

We are also thankful to Supreme Master Ching Hai for her deeply caring support to the distressed families in Myanmar and our Association members for their efforts.

We pray for the protection of the Burmese people as they continue recovering the regularity of their day-to-day lives as we strive for greater kindness toward one another and our ecosphere.