By Fernanda Wu, Hsiu-Lin Wu | Chile 

A Bridge of Despair and Hope 

Years ago, under the Mapocho River bridge in Chile, children lived in the shadows, consuming alcohol and inhaling glue, gasoline, and drugs. Their lives were bleak and broken. Yet, hope appeared when Pía Salas, the head of the "Fundación Abrazarte," extended her hand. Together with the local government, she helped these children leave their dark past behind and start anew, building simple homes and a fresh chance at life. Today, those same children have grown into parents themselves. They are determined to give their own children a brighter future, breaking the cycle of despair. 

"Three charitable organizations came together to help these vulnerable families," says Tzu Chi volunteer Fernanda Wu. On September 1, a joint effort between Tzu Chi Chile, Fundación Abrazarte, and the Scouts Fernando de Aragón brought supplies and care to ten struggling families who once lived under the bridge. 

The Power of Community Love 

Before the distribution event, volunteers Fernanda Wu, Chin-Chiu Liao, and Cesar spent their Sunday, August 25, gathering supplies. They carefully selected the best food, hygiene products, and essential items for the families. Staff at the local supermarket, upon hearing about the purpose of their purchases, enthusiastically offered help. 

Generosity extended beyond the supermarket. A long-time donor, Zheng-Yuan Liang, contributed once again, this time offering sneakers for those in need. Over the years, his continuous support has provided essential items to countless vulnerable families, and his kindness was deeply appreciated by the volunteers. 

On August 31, the Scouts Fernando de Aragón, led by Katherine and Cesar, donated supplies for an upcoming scout camp. This partnership, built on years of mutual respect, exemplified the community spirit. The scouts responded with applause, grateful for the care and encouragement. 

Young Lights Leading the Way 

Early on the morning of September 1, twelve Tzu Chi volunteers, including Fernanda and Katherine, arrived at the community center to prepare for the event. The Scouts quickly joined in, packaging yogurt and preparing nutritious meals for the schoolchildren. Katherine took charge of the lunch, creating colorful and healthy veggie wraps despite her own health struggles. Her hands ached from a vitamin deficiency, but her spirit was unwavering, moving everyone with her strength. 

As the day unfolded, Francisco, the scout leader, explained the significance of the scout neckerchiefs—given only to those who serve their community. Aline, one of the scouts, received her neckerchief with pride, then distributed them to the participating volunteers, expressing gratitude for everyone’s dedication to the community. 

Two Tzu Ching youth volunteers, Rocio and Florencia, stood proudly among them, serving alongside their fellow scouts and bringing hope to the families. 

A Story of Compassion by the River 

The event began at 10:30 a.m. when Pía Salas arrived with the families. She recounted the journey that began in 2005 when she left her successful acting career to care for the children living under the Mapocho River bridges. Violence, drugs, and neglect filled their lives, but Pía decided to make a difference, offering love and art as her tools. Slowly, she helped these children and their families move from the streets to modest homes. 

“I chose the children of the Mapocho River because no one believed in them or cared for them,” Pía shared. “I felt a calling from God, knowing I had a great mission.” 

Through her selfless acts, Pía has transformed countless lives, giving them a chance to rebuild and move forward. 

Bright Futures through Fun and Education 

As the winter sun shone brightly, the day’s activities continued with games and laughter. Cesar led the children in relays, teaching them the importance of staying active and avoiding the dangers of drugs and crime. Tzu Ching and the scouts provided an inspiring example of how positive energy and kindness can shape a person’s future. 

One particularly moving moment occurred when Cecilia, a Tzu Chi volunteer, bent down to fit a young girl with new sneakers. The child's delighted giggles filled the air. “Thank you, Tzu Chi,” one mother said. “My child desperately needed a pair of sneakers, and they are perfect!” 

The families received much-needed supplies, and the gratitude was overwhelming. "I can’t believe so many items were donated," one mother exclaimed. "We are truly blessed today." 

An Ever-Flowing River of Love 

By noon, as everyone gathered for a meal, Fernanda Wu sat with one of the mothers, listening to her story of hardship. This woman had run away from home when she was twelve, joining others to live under the bridge, surviving by scavenging for food and materials. But thanks to Pía, she had managed to escape that life. Now, although life remains tough, she has hope, a home, and a future for her children. 

As the day came to an end, the children happily enjoyed their meals, sporting new sneakers and bright smiles. Volunteers like Fernanda taught them to express gratitude, fostering an attitude of thankfulness in even the youngest hearts. “Thank you!” a little girl said, her hands pressed together in a gesture of respect. 

For Pía, the day was a culmination of years of work. “It’s hard to express our joy. These children have received incredible help. Thank you so much,” she said, her eyes filled with tears of gratitude. 

The stories of the Mapocho River children will continue, shaped by love, compassion, and a shared belief in a better future. Thanks to the tireless efforts of these volunteers and organizations, a new chapter of hope is being written.