Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association relief news update from Afghanistan.
From April to May 2009, at least 10 of Afghanistan’s 34 provinces were hit by floods, landslides and avalanches. In five of the northernmost provinces, more than 150 people perished with over 10,000 families affected.

Hundreds of homes were destroyed, and more than 5,000 hectares of croplands and 4,200 fruit trees were damaged, as many farmers lost their produce and livelihoods.

On May 23, Supreme Master Ching Hai promptly donated US$20,000 for urgent aid, to be delivered by our Association’s relief team if possible. This amount could purchase an equivalent of US$1.2 million in aid purchased in the United States, based on Afghanistan’s cost of living.

Despite some delays encountered due to administrative problems, on November 7 our Association’s nearest relief team arrived at Herat, Afghanistan, having covered their own travel and related expenses of US$1,100.

The next day, representatives of the flood-afflicted persons arrived at a designated warehouse to receive the supplies. Our Association members handed out packages including rice, oil, and a blanket to 392 families.

Our gratefulness for Supreme Master Ching Hai’s wholehearted concern and aid, as well as our Association relief team’s sincere efforts. May Allah bless the Afghan people with a swift recovery to their productive day-to-day lives, as humanity’s kinder standards help ensure a peaceful Earth.