Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association relief news from Brazil.
As the nation's southern Santa Catarina state was devastated by torrential rains and floods in the early part of September, at least three fatalities were reported and at least 15,000 of the total 935,000 affected residents fled for shelters. More than half the affected 60 cities declared states of emergency.

Conveying all her love and prayers, Supreme Master Ching Hai donated US$8,000 after our nearby Association members assessed the situation, asking them to render aid to the most vulnerable.

This amount could purchase approximately US$35,000 in emergency supplies, if obtained in the United States, based on Brazil’s cost of living. Covering their travel and related expenses of US$1,190, our Association members from São Paulo and Paraguay traveled as soon as they could to Santa Catarina state’s Rio do Sul city, which was nearly completely underwater.

About 300 families had been forced to stay in shelters at night because the rains had inundated their homes and ruined their possessions, leaving them with nowhere to sleep.

The relief team was able to distribute 200 mattresses, sheets and pillowcase sets to address these needs, in addition to the food and clothes already received. Residents also gladly accepted the SOS flyer on climate change and the veg solution.

With thanks to the Brazilian government and officials, we are grateful for Supreme Master Ching Hai’s loving aid and the caring work of our Association's relief team.

Our prayers for the protection of the storm-affected people and for the lessening of such weather extremes through our gentler care for fellow co-inhabitants and the environment.