In late October 2023, Hurricane Otis struck Acapulco, Mexico, with devastating force. In the aftermath, countless families were in urgent need of assistance. With the full support of residents and the dedicated Consecrated Sisters of the Most Holy Savior, Tzu Chi volunteers quickly mobilized to assess the damage and identify those in need of help.
In early November 2023, three local Tzu Chi volunteers, along with Marta, the principal of the Morillo School in Jojutla City built by Tzu Chi, formed the first disaster assessment team. They ventured into the hardest-hit areas, including the Jardin and Pie de la Cuesta communities. From November 13 to 21, Tzu Chi volunteers in the US formed a disaster assessment team and joined local volunteers for the second round of assessments.
Starting November 19, local volunteers made five consecutive visits to the disaster areas, working with locals to conduct home visits and detailed assessments. By December 5, the team registered 3,700 households. During this period, they met the Consecrated Sisters of the Most Holy Savior, who offered to help Tzu Chi with the registry. Despite blocked roads, the sisters braved the obstacles, crossing streams and climbing rocks, tirelessly visiting disaster survivors from day to night.
During their visits, Tzu Chi volunteers discovered that the sisters' convent had also been severely damaged by the hurricane. The roof had been torn off, and their beehives, which were a source of livelihood, were destroyed. The team decided to support the convent with cash cards to help them repair the damage. The sisters were deeply moved by Tzu Chi's assistance, noting how Tzu Chi’s efforts transcended religious boundaries and united people through the common language of love. Sister Michelle, who helped with the census, expressed that this experience allowed them to step out of the convent and understand the needs of the nearby impoverished community. They also learned the importance of putting compassion into action. Upon hearing about the earthquake in Taiwan in April, they led their village in daily prayers for Taiwan.
In early 2024, Tzu Chi’s journey to provide aid began. From January 5 to 7, Tzu Chi volunteers from the United States, Ecuador, Spain, and Argentina joined local volunteers to distribute cash cards to over 3,800 affected households. The distribution took place at the Church of Our Lady of Fatima (Parroquia Nuestra Señora de Fátima). These cash cards allowed families to purchase essential items from partner stores, helping them meet their needs for two months.
One recipient, Socorro Pérez Flores, shared her gratitude, saying, “We will keep Master Cheng Yen in our hearts. With this card, we can buy what we need to move forward and restore our homes to look the same again.”
The local priest and sisters also encouraged the community to participate in Tzu Chi’s spirit of the Bamboo Bank Era, and in just a few days, they raised 4,800 USD. These donations represent the gratitude and determination of the disaster-stricken community to rebuild their homes and demonstrate Tzu Chi’s spirit of boundless love.
Despite their building structure and roofs being damaged and losing their food supplies to intense flooding, the Consecrated Sisters of the Most Holy Savior have continued to support their community. “Our parish priest, Father Benjamin, came and told us that this organization needed help to conduct a census. With great joy, we said yes,” shared Sister Maria Socorro.
This effort has transcended language barriers, inspiring many to help their neighbors in need. Let’s continue to spread love and hope together!
