On September 23, 2025, a sudden disaster struck Hualien County when a dammed lake on the Mata'an Stream overflowed, severely flooding Guangfu Township. Tzu Chi launched its comprehensive relief efforts immediately, beginning a journey that swiftly evolved from emergency assistance to specialized, long-term recovery—a commitment marked by immense volunteer mobilization, dedicated logistical support, and focused medical care.
Healing the Wounds—Focus on Specialized Care
As the initial cleanup stabilized, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital maintained a sustained and specialized medical presence to care for the community and the exhausted first responders.
- Immediate Medical Deployment: Medical teams established up to three medical stations in Guangfu and later deployed a fourth team for home visits in Datong Village. In total, free clinics served 2,952 individuals.
- Caring for the Rescuers: Recognizing the physical toll on the search and rescue personnel, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital deployed a specialized Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) team.
- Acupuncture Relief: Led by Vice Superintendent Tsung-Jung Ho, the team visited the Fire Department command center, offering acupuncture and other TCM treatments for ailments like back pain, heatstroke, and fatigue. This compassionate outreach was crucial for the brave individuals who risked their health for the rescue mission.
The Long Road to Reconstruction
With the mass cleanup for 1,088 homes largely complete, the phase of recovery began—rebuilding stability.
- Transition to Repair: On October 7, Tzu Chi officially moved its specialized repair team into Guangfu Township to begin reconstruction work on damaged residences. This pivot ensured that relief went beyond cleaning to truly helping residents rebuild their lives.
- Sustained Aid: Distribution of financial and material aid continued systematically across the township, with aid rounds planned for Da'an, Dama, Daping, and Atomo villages through mid-October, ensuring no affected area was overlooked.
From the mass mobilization of 'Shovel Heroes' to the provision of life-affirming hot meals and specialized TCM for weary rescuers, Tzu Chi's response reflects a multi-faceted and sustained commitment to comprehensive recovery in Guangfu Township.
