In late February, early March of 2025, a devastating wildfire swept through the forests of Ofunato, Iwate Prefecture, in northern Japan. The flames not only consumed lush mountainsides but also left many families without homes. Amid the ashes, however, a familiar presence brought warmth and hope—Tzu Chi volunteers from Tokyo, who had first arrived in Ofunato in the aftermath of the magnitude 9.1 (Mw) 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami.
A Legacy of Compassion
In 2011, Ofunato was one of the hardest-hit areas by the tsunami that followed the undersea megathrust earthquake. Tzu Chi volunteers were among the first to arrive, providing not only material aid but also emotional support to the survivors. Over the years, the bond between Tzu Chi and the community deepened, with many locals who had once received aid now joining as volunteers themselves.
When the wildfires struck this time, Tzu Chi Japan immediately mobilized. “We felt their pain as if it were our own,” shared Leong Tat Tan, the administrative director of Tzu Chi Japan. “The word ‘kizuna’ (bond) has always been significant here. It’s not just about being tied together; it’s about a lasting, pure connection.”
Rebuilding Together
The relief effort was a collaborative one, with 67 volunteers, including 23 from the Tohoku region, working together. Among them were Mr. and Mrs. Yoshida, a couple from Kesennuma who had assisted Tzu Chi during the 2011 disaster. “Back then, I was skeptical about the aid,” Mrs. Yoshida recalled. “But witnessing the sincerity of Tzu Chi gave me the strength to rebuild my life.”
Local volunteer Katayama also shared her story. “Tzu Chi helped me when I had nothing. Now, it’s my turn to give back.” Her sentiment was echoed by many others, including Hirayama, who helped prepare meals for the survivors, who said, “Fourteen years ago, the tsunami took everything from me. Tzu Chi helped me stand again.”
Warm Meals, Warm Hearts
On April 5 and 6, Tzu Chi volunteers set up a relief station at the local community center, offering hot meals and consolation funds. The aroma of freshly cooked food filled the air as volunteers served dishes like Chinese-style rice bowls and mapo tofu. For many survivors, these meals were more than sustenance—they were a reminder of care and support.
Yuno, a survivor, initially kept to himself, but the warmth of the food gradually melted his reserve. “This is delicious,” he said, promising to bring others from the shelter the next day. Another survivor, Sodeo, shared his story of losing his home twice—first to the tsunami and now to the fire. “We’ll rebuild,” he said firmly, his mother adding, “When we do, we’ll send you photos.”
A Message of Resilience
For survivors like Noriko (alias), who had rebuilt her home after the tsunami only to lose it again in the fire, the disaster was a test of resilience. A cancer survivor, she remained optimistic. “I’ve faced so much hardship; I can get through this too,” she said, showing volunteers photos of her burned home. She plans to use the consolation funds to buy a refrigerator, starting her life anew.
During the relief effort, she found a Jing Si aphorism attached to a blanket: “No matter what difficulties we encounter in life, as long as we face them mindfully, even the greatest challenges will seem small.” She decided to carry it with her as a source of strength.
A New Chapter of Hope
The 2025 wildfire relief effort was a testament to the enduring bond between Tzu Chi and the Ofunato community. “We’re here not just to provide aid, but to show that they’re not alone,” said Li-Shing Shyu, CEO of Tzu Chi Japan. “Fourteen years ago, we stood by them after the tsunami. Today, we’re here again, offering the same warmth and care.”
The relief team, a mix of seasoned volunteers and younger members, worked seamlessly together. “Everyone brought their strengths,” said Lily Su, deputy CEO of Tzu Chi Japan. “It’s a beautiful blend of experience and innovation.”
As the community begins to rebuild, the spirit of “gratitude, respect, and love” continues to guide Tzu Chi’s efforts. The seeds of compassion planted in 2011 have grown into a legacy of hope, proving that even in the face of disaster, love and resilience can prevail.
Contributed by Hui-Chen Wu, Hsiu-Ying Hung, Ling-Li Lin, Li-Hsiang Hsu, Ching-Hui Chen, and Chia-Li Chu.
