Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association relief news update from Costa Rica.

Floods and landslides wreaked havoc across the nation in early November, especially devastating San Antonio de Escazú, near the capital of San José. At least 20 were found perished and some 1,500 other residents were evacuated to temporary shelters. The Costa Rican government made immediate pledges of assistance, as emergency crews and citizens rushed to clear debris.

Sending her deep sympathies and prayers, Supreme Master Ching Hai donated US$7,500 as part of a US$15,000 fund for storm-stricken Venezuela as well, and asked our nearby Association members to go help the most vulnerable. This amount could obtain approximately US$57,000 in supplies acquired in the United States, based on the average cost of living in the region.

Our local Association members went as soon as conditions permitted, traveling to the area shelters where 300 hardest-hit residents were staying. There, they delivered fresh and nutritious vegan groceries and prepared a hot meal for the victims. Our Association members also showed the school shelter staff how to cook the soy protein. Many people at the shelter expressed joy and thanks to Supreme Master Ching Hai for this healthy and satisfying cuisine in their time of need.

With appreciation for the Costa Rican government and all personnel coming to the aid of the landslide-affected people, we are also grateful for Supreme Master Ching Hai’s kind assistance, and thank our Association’s relief team for their efforts. May such tragic situations be alleviated through our gentler lifestyles on the planet.