By Amy Wu
As the vibrant hues of autumn faded, the approaching winter brought a chill to the air and a reminder of those in need. On November 14, 2024, just after 4:00 p.m., fifteen Tzu Chi volunteers arrived at the Lookout Housing and Health Society in Surrey, Canada. For the 23rd consecutive year since 2002, they delivered warmth and compassion, bringing 48 sets of winter supplies to help the homeless weather the cold months ahead.
Respecting Residents with Heartfelt Care
The City of Surrey, alongside private organizations, operates shelters to provide the homeless with refuge—a place to shield them from the harsh elements and offer a fresh start. These shelters run around the clock, every day of the year, in nineteen cities across British Columbia. Residents are respectfully referred to as "clients" by shelter management, acknowledging their dignity and humanity.
A Special Evening of Surprise and Joy
After days of relentless rain, the sun peeked through, casting a warm glow as the Tzu Chi volunteers entered the shelter. Despite temperatures hovering around 6 degrees Celsius, the atmosphere inside was cozy and inviting. As dinner time approached, residents trickled into the dining area where a sumptuous meal awaited. Volunteers added to the warmth by bringing coffee, hot chocolate, and bananas. They spread crisp white tablecloths adorned with floral decorations, gracefully moving between tables to serve meals and tend to every need.
"Would you like more hot chocolate?" "Need a banana or two?" Their cheerful inquiries filled the room. The residents, pleasantly surprised by the attention, enjoyed the meal with smiles. Some joined their palms together in gratitude, their eyes reflecting heartfelt thanks.
Spreading Blessings Through Words and Deeds
The soothing melody of the Tzu Chi song The Spirit of Great Love filled the air as volunteers performed sign language interpretations. The graceful movements captivated the residents, prompting some to mimic the gestures. Even the shelter staff paused, drawn by the harmonious display.
"What are these?" a resident asked, intrigued by the cards in volunteer Emily Kuan's hand. "These are blessings from Master Cheng Yen. Would you like to choose one?" she replied. Encouraged, the resident selected a Jing Si Aphorism card and read aloud, "The most, simple and ordinary life, brings the most, inner peace."
Jessica Biring, the shelter's interim project coordinator, received the aphorism: "Make today count! It comes only once in a lifetime." She smiled, stating she would place it on her desk as a daily reminder.
"The spirit of Tzu Chi's 'Bamboo Bank Era' is wonderful," Jessica shared. "It signifies that even small coins, though seemingly insignificant, can accumulate to make a big difference, fostering positive energy within the community. Thank you for bringing these winter gifts; they are a timely help for our residents. Let's join hands to support those in need because we are all one family."
The Transformative Power of Compassion
Volunteer Yi-Jun Lin introduced Tzu Chi's origins in Taiwan and its growth in Canada, emphasizing how volunteers embody Master Cheng Yen's teachings by giving back to local communities. Inspired by the "Bamboo Bank Era," residents shyly contributed coins, their faces lighting up with smiles. One resident, after flipping through a Tzu Chi Monthly magazine, asked if he could to take it home to read further.
Kami, originally from Thailand, proudly wore his new coat. "It's been raining every day lately. This coat came just in time—I don't have to worry about getting wet and cold," he exclaimed with joy.
Dan Gregoire, the shelter manager, expressed his gratitude: "Our maximum capacity is forty beds, funded entirely by government subsidies and community donations. We're thankful for Tzu Chi's support over the past twenty-three years, bringing additional warmth to our residents."
As the evening ended, the homeless donned their new coats and vests, carrying bags filled with essentials—toothbrushes, toothpaste, towels, knitted hats, nail clippers, deodorant, long socks, gloves, and raincoats. With steaming cups of aromatic coffee in hand, they stepped out into the crisp night air, their faces adorned with genuine smiles. The volunteers watched silently, their hearts filled with hope that these gestures of kindness would help the residents embrace the winter months with warmth and dignity.
