Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association relief news update from Iran.
Early in January 2010, winds of up to 120 kilometer-per-hours pummeled through northwestern Iran, causing one fatality and 10 others to sustain injuries as 2,000 buildings were damaged, including homes, shops, rice warehouses and stables.

Expressing her sympathies and heartfelt prayers, Supreme Master Ching Hai donated US$11,000, asking that our local Association members go render aid to those most in need.

This amount could obtain US$40,000 in items purchased in the United States, based on Iran’s cost of living.
Our native Association’s relief team went as soon as possible to some of the most affected areas near Garmi Angut village and Nir city in Ardabīl Province, which borders Azerbaijan.

There, they met with the Red Crescent officials who kindly provided them with a car, driver, and a list of the most afflicted communities. Despite a dense fog, the relief team was able to visit 13 remote villages.

Our Association members also gave comforting vegan chocolate and a total of US$2,800 in financial assistance to 25 families to help repair the devastated roofs of their homes.

The team also went to Gilan Province, where they distributed essential supplies to 155 families in the towns of Astara, Talesh, Fooman, and Sangar. A regional television channel broadcast messages of gratitude for Supreme Master Ching Hai’s help to the people of Gilan several times between programs.

Throughout the relief work, the relief recipients expressed their appreciation for Supreme Master Ching Hai’s unconditional compassion and support.

The driver was also deeply touched and conveyed his gratefulness to Supreme Master Ching Hai for giving him the opportunity to help.

We send our appreciation to the Iranian Red Crescent officials and generous driver for your considerate assistance. We are also thankful for Supreme Master Ching Hai’s kindhearted care extended to the vulnerable, as well as for the diligent endeavors of our Association’s relief team.

May Allah bless the affected communities with a smooth recovery of life’s regularity as our increased stewardship helps ensure the stability of the ecosphere.