Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association relief news update from Chile.
More than one month since the harrowing 8.8 magnitude earthquake and ensuing tsunami that left nearly 800 perished on February 27, dozens of aftershocks have continued to shake the more than 2 million affected survivors.

Earthquake victim (M): There were a lot of people on Orrego island who disappeared. One could sense the cries of the people, but no one could do anything. (crying) We have lot of sadness, lot of sadness.

VOICE: Sending her condolences and sorrowful prayers, Supreme Master Ching Hai donated US$20,000, asking that our local Association members please go to help bring aid and comfort to those most in need.

This amount could obtain US$63,000 in materials if bought in the United States, based on Chile’s cost of living. Covering their own travel expenses, our Association’s Chilean relief team has been traveling to the most severely hit areas to deliver basic food and cleaning supplies.

More recently, they arrived in the remote towns of Peumo and Las Cabras with 4 tons of emergency supplies and a mobile dental clinic. Having received the warm welcome of city officials and residents, our Association members were offered help from local Chilean soldiers in distributing the items, which included fresh water, rice, flour, sugar, diapers and clothes.

Meanwhile, a trained dentist from among our Association’s relief team members offered free dental care to help restore the victims’ sense of well-being.

With some 700 homes destroyed, including many that belonged to the elderly, this was the first aid the communities had received since the disasters.

Despite a strong aftershock that momentarily sent a wave of panic, no one was injured. The relief recipients, local Red Cross, and town officials gathered to convey their gratefulness for the loving support.

Mayor of Peumo, Chile (M): Our eternal gratitude, our eternal commitment to truth, thanks for the gesture that you have made to our community.

VOICE: We appreciate the efforts of the government, Red Cross, and all personnel who have been assisting the quake-afflicted in Chile. Our thankfulness also to Supreme Master Ching Hai for her unconditional care to those in distress, and to our Association’s relief team for their diligent endeavors.

As we pray that the Chilean people soon resume their productive daily lives, may such traumatic events be alleviated through our better stewardship of the ecosphere.