By Ching-Hung Yeh, Hsiu-Lien Chu | USA
After back-to-back hurricanes devastated communities in the southeastern United States, Tzu Chi volunteers in Texas transformed compassion into action. On October 26–27, they organized “Cherish and Love: A Second-Hand Goods Bazaar,” a charity sale raising funds for hurricane survivors.
Hurricane Helene, a Category 4 storm, and Hurricane Milton left a trail of destruction across six states, claiming over 60 lives and displacing thousands. Recognizing the immense need for relief, Tzu Chi Texas Chapter rallied volunteers and community members to contribute.
Transforming Treasures into Relief
The charity sale, held on October 26–27, brought together volunteers and community members in a collective effort to help hurricane survivors. The two-day event featured pre-loved treasures, including toys, clothing, baked goods, and even potted plants lovingly prepared by volunteer Jennifer An.
Gardening had been a passion for Jennifer during the pandemic, and she saw this event as an opportunity to turn her hobby into a force for good. “I’ve always hoped my plants can serve a meaningful purpose,” she shared. Her cacti and succulents became a highlight of the sale, with many attendees coming specifically for her creations.
Jennifer’s sister, Yue-Hua Liang, joined the team, along with friends and neighbors who donated surplus household items. “We wanted to turn unused items into treasures for others, while helping those in need,” said Jennifer.
A Community Comes Together
The days leading up to the event were filled with activity. Volunteers organized and categorized the donations, transforming the chapter’s courtyard into a lively bazaar. Visitors were welcomed by friendly volunteers, who not only shared tips on gardening but also highlighted the cause behind the event.
Among the attendees was regular supporter Ming-Yen Li, who praised the event’s meaningful purpose. “This sale offers beautiful items at affordable prices, and each purchase carries the love of helping hurricane survivors,” she said. Unable to physically assist in disaster zones, Ming-Yen saw this as the perfect way to give back. “Every little bit counts,” she added. “Together, we can make a difference.”
Volunteer Alice Wang, a fellow gardening enthusiast, expressed her admiration for the event. “These little cacti may have thorns, but they carry warmth and comfort,” she said. For her, supporting the sale was a way to extend kindness and alleviate the pain of disaster survivors.
Reflecting on the collective strength of Tzu Chi volunteers, Alice shared, “I feel grateful to be part of an effort that turns compassion into action. Every act of kindness brings us closer to a world free from suffering.”
Extending the Spirit of Love
The charity sale not only raised funds but also promoted an upcoming “Love in Humanity” Thanksgiving concert on November 17. Organized by the Texas Chapter, the concert aims to inspire unity and hope as the community prepares to welcome a new year.
In face of disaster relief and raising funds to help those in need, Master Cheng Yen often says, “I don’t know where the money is, but I know where love is.” resonated deeply throughout the event. Inspired by this belief, the volunteers demonstrated how small, heartfelt actions can ripple outward to create profound change.
As the event concluded, participants expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to help. “I hope disasters like these never happen again,” said Alice. “But I’m thankful to be part of something that shows we can rise above hardship together.”
Through the collective efforts of the Tzu Chi Texas Chapter, their supporters, and the wider community, the charity sale proved that when hearts unite, even small gestures can bring immense hope. With compassion as their guiding light, the volunteers continue to inspire others to create a world of harmony and love.
