By Hsiu-Ling Wu and Chi-Fen Lin
A Mission of Love
In the aftermath of severe flooding, Tzu Chi volunteers from Taiwan and South America joined forces to bring aid to São Leopoldo, Brazil. Helena Hung, a dedicated volunteer from Argentina, shared at the opening ceremony, “We come from Taiwan, a small place with kind and lovely people. We’re here not just to give things, which will eventually be used up. We want to leave behind love.”
Following a successful relief distribution in the Eldorado Do Sul community on November 22, the team moved to Paulo Beck School in São Leopoldo on November 23. Over two days, they aimed to reach approximately 1,500 households, ensuring that no one was left behind.
Inspiring Transformation
São Leopoldo, home to a diverse population of ethnicities from Asia, Europe, and Africa, was among the hardest-hit areas. Volunteers worked closely with local police to ensure safety, while residents and volunteers from earlier efforts joined in preparation for the distribution.
The opening ceremony featured a “uniform ceremony,” where local volunteers and school principal Luciano donned Tzu Chi vests, symbolizing their shared commitment to compassion. Helena encouraged the disaster survivors to consider becoming volunteers, spreading kindness in their own communities. Messages from Master Cheng Yen, founder of Tzu Chi, resonated deeply with the participants, reminding them of the enduring power of love and hope.
Stories of Resilience
Amid the relief efforts, stories of resilience emerged. A grandmother caring for her diabetic daughter and a granddaughter with a heart condition expressed profound gratitude for the aid. Despite her hardships, her unwavering love and faith shone brightly.
Another recipient, who lost everything in the floods, shared how Tzu Chi’s support had eased her burdens, offering a glimmer of hope during dark times. Many were moved to tears as they realized the profound impact of the aid on their lives.
From Survivors to Helpers
The relief efforts inspired transformations within the community. A local volunteer, initially skeptical of Tzu Chi, was moved to tears after witnessing their dedication. She joined the effort, transitioning from a disaster survivor to a compassionate helper.
Community leaders like Uilson and Adroildo dedicated themselves to the project, even resigning from their jobs to help with registrations and equipment rentals. Their commitment embodied the spirit of mutual aid and highlighted the power of collective compassion.
Adroildo, who oversaw the compilation of affected families, expressed deep gratitude for Tzu Chi’s efforts. “The compassion we’ve seen here has not only brought relief but also inspired a sense of responsibility within us to help one another,” he shared.
Rooting Love Deeply
Long-time volunteers like Mama Shen and her friends brought warmth and dedication to the event, showcasing the enduring spirit of Tzu Chi. Interpreter Maitana Chou played a vital role, seamlessly conveying the essence of Tzu Chi’s love, deepening connections among participants.
The three-day relief effort in Rio Grande do Sul state reached 2,034 households, covering 99.2% of those in need. Completed just before the holiday season, the distribution ended on a note of gratitude and hope.
As the event concluded, the seeds of love planted by Tzu Chi promised a brighter future for São Leopoldo. The gratitude expressed by recipients reflected the profound impact of compassion, which will continue to guide the community toward resilience and hope.
