By Yuan-Chen Hu, Chun-Liang Chiu 

In the bustling community of Bodh Gaya, India, Tzu Chi volunteers are working diligently to support families in need. With the upcoming charity distribution day on March 30, these dedicated volunteers are conducting meticulous follow-ups to understand each care recipient’s current situation and ensure the aid provided meets their needs. 

Preparing for Charity Day 

Held on the last weekend of each month, the monthly charity distribution day is a vital event for many families in Bodh Gaya. This timing ensures that recipients have used their previous supplies, preventing waste or misuse. Tzu Chi volunteer Bee Hua Lok explains that while resources and manpower may be tight, follow-ups are essential to ensure that every recipient receives proper assistance. 

Stories of Strength 

One visit led volunteers to the home of Koshila Devi, a mother of five who recently lost her husband. Despite the challenges, her family remains resilient. Koshila’s eldest daughter, currently a college sophomore, dreams of becoming a police officer, undeterred by the physical hurdles she faces. Meanwhile, her younger children continue their schooling, bringing hope and a sense of progress during this difficult time. 

Volunteers also visited Dilip Ravidas, a dialysis patient who requires hospital visits three times a week. His wife accompanies him every time, worried about his ability to manage the exhausting journey alone. This responsibility prevents her from working, but she is now considering starting a small shop for a more flexible source of income, thanks to encouragement from volunteers. Dilip’s youngest daughter currently in tenth grade, has taken a proactive step by enrolling in a local English class, hoping to improve her skills and create better opportunities for herself. 

Overcoming Cultural Barriers 

In Hathiyar village, volunteers met Gulejan Khatun, a Muslim mother whose husband is bedridden due to illness. Cultural norms prevent her daughters from working outside the home, but neighbors suggested she use her exceptional sewing skills to earn an income. Although volunteers were impressed by the craftsmanship of her handmade clothing, Gulejan seemed hesitant to pursue the opportunity, leaving her family’s future uncertain. 

Maintaining Ethical Standards 

During follow-ups, volunteers also visited supply vendors to address issues with prior deliveries. Ensuring integrity and transparency is a top priority for Tzu Chi, especially since their funding comes from generous global donors. Bee Hua Lok emphasized that volunteers and collaborators must uphold ethical practices to avoid undermining the organization’s mission. Vendors were reminded to contribute honestly and responsibly, reinforcing Tzu Chi’s principles. 

Reflecting on their visits, volunteers shared their commitment to helping care recipients overcome their challenges and embrace self-reliance, underscoring the essence of Tzu Chi’s work. 

The tireless efforts of Tzu Chi volunteers in Bodh Gaya not only bring relief to families but also foster independence and dignity. By addressing immediate needs and encouraging long-term solutions, they illuminate paths of hope and resilience for those facing hardships.