Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association relief news update from Peru.
Since the beginning of 2010, the southern region of Cusco, Peru has been inundated by the heaviest rains in 15 years. Resulting deadly mudslides and floods in the Taray district of Calca Province claimed at least nine lives and forced over 133 families to evacuate as thousands of homes were destroyed.

Expressing deep sorrow and prayers, Supreme Master Ching Hai donated initially US$5,000 in aid, with more later if needed, asking that our native or nearby Association members please go help the most vulnerable.

This amount could acquire US$27,000 in emergency supplies purchased in the United States, based on the cost of living in Peru. Following the initial floods in Taray, our Association’s native relief team went to deliver warm clothes to the elderly and children, and food supplies to the victimized families.
 
However, another wave of floods hit soon after, causing many more people to lose their homes and belongings. The relief team returned to Taray, where they prepared fresh and nourishing vegan meals for 650 people who depended on a modestly supplied community kitchen for sustenance.

The team then went to the nearby Pisac, where nine workers had perished in the flooded Quilcapata River. Families there received sealable buckets filled with relief items, blankets, and informative SOS flyers.

With assistance offered by local students and teachers, the relief team also organized a presentation to help raise awareness of the tolls of climate change and the most sustainable vegan solution.

Village representative (M): Thank you very much Master Ching Hai and to all the relief team.
Relief recipient (F): Thank you, Master Ching Hai.
Relief recipient (F): Master Ching Hai, thank you.

VOICE: Our appreciation, all volunteers, students and teachers, for your willing assistance. We are also thankful for Supreme Master Ching Hai’s wholehearted support to the Peruvian people, and for the diligent endeavors of our Association’s relief team. With Heaven’s blessings, may the disaster-stricken residents soon recover as such distressing situations are alleviated through humanity’s increased care for one another.