By Yong-Yao Du, Wei-Yang Guo, Heng-Zhong Su, Yong-Hua Chen  

A Shelter Beyond the Storm 

Amid the turmoil of war in Yunnan, China, twenty displaced children found solace in Mandalay—a place where survival was possible. In their greatest time of need, they were embraced by Joseph, his wife, and his younger sister, Han En Xian, compassionate guardians who welcomed them as family. Though their home was humble, it overflowed with warmth, love, and an unwavering commitment to ensuring the children had food, shelter, and education—a foundation for rebuilding their lives. 

However, when a devastating earthquake struck on March 28, their fragile sanctuary was thrown into chaos. Their shelter and classrooms suffered extensive damage, leaving them displaced once more. With resources running dangerously low, the future seemed bleak. 

Then, hope arrived. 

Tzu Chi volunteers, carrying boxes of supplies, stepped in to help. The children watched with eager anticipation as they opened each package—like unwrapping gifts from an unseen yet caring world. Inside were food essentials such as rice and cooking oil, along with clothes, backpacks, lunch containers, and books. 

Han En Xian, herself a young caretaker, beamed with gratitude. “Thank you to the teachers and those who brought us food and supplies,” she said, her voice filled with appreciation not just for herself, but for the children she helped look after. 

For the volunteers, this mission was about more than just delivering aid. As Nandar Aung Aye explained, “Our teacher, Master Cheng Yen, is the guiding force behind all our actions. We are simply passing forward the kindness she teaches us.” 

Children Without Names 

Among the group were children who, due to displacement and hardship, had never even been given names. 

“What’s your name?” Nandar Aung Aye gently asked a young boy. 

A girl spoke solemnly. “He doesn’t have one.” 

In the eyes of the world, these nameless children might have been overlooked, but to Joseph and his family, they were family. Despite having little themselves, they took these children in and cared for them as their own. 

“I cannot let them go hungry, and I cannot let their learning stop,” Joseph explained. “I have asked my family to help however they can.” 

His devotion deeply moved volunteer Ting Yadena Deng (婷雅德娜登), who reflected, “Joseph and the others aren’t looking after the kids because they have the means—they’re simply doing their best to care for them. It is truly admirable.” 

A Promise of Continued Care 

On their second visit, Tzu Chi volunteers returned with an even larger delivery of relief goods, filling a truck with additional supplies. As they unloaded the packages, a new concern emerged—there was no money for medicine. Without hesitation, the volunteers arranged transportation and purchased what was needed, ensuring no child would go without treatment. 

Their goal was simple: to provide relief, restore dignity, and remind these children that, despite their hardships, they were not forgotten. 

Though their future remains uncertain, one thing is undeniable—kindness has given them something precious: hope.