By Hsiu-Lin Wu, Fernanda Wu 

LEFT: A little scout joyfully joined the adults in the distribution. Despite her young age, she boldly carried a 10-kilogram bag of rice with both hands. RIGHT: Two young girl scouts (first and second from left) brightened the scene with their gentle kindness. They handed out tea boxes with radiant smiles, warming everyone’s hearts. | Photos by Chin-Chiu Liao | Chile | 2024/11/09 

Under Chile’s November sunshine, Tzu Chi volunteers gathered at Colegio Fernando de Aragón to distribute supplies to underprivileged families. This year’s outreach included 15 scout volunteers alongside experienced Tzu Chi members. Young scouts and children eagerly joined adults in unloading, organizing, and distributing materials. Their cheerful smiles became the highlight of the day, proving that even the smallest hands can make a big impact. 

Father Felipe (fifth from right) came with church volunteers to receive supplies for 15 families in need. He expressed: "Thank you for everything. On behalf of the church and the vulnerable, we are deeply grateful—it’s all perfect." | Photo by Chin-Chiu Liao | Chile |2024/11/09

 “Thank you for supporting the foundation,” volunteer Cecilia warmly addressed the group. Families, school staff, and community leaders worked together seamlessly, ensuring the supplies—daily essentials like rice and noodles—were distributed efficiently. 

Alicia (center), head of the Fundación Reñma, brought a Japanese-style bonsai arrangement symbolizing harmony and friendship. It carried a message of hope for continued unity and progress. | Photo by Chin-Chiu Liao | Chile |2024/11/09 

The collaboration extended beyond one location. Volunteers also worked with local organizations, including Fundación Reñma and Santa Elena Orthodox Catholic Church, to reach 222 families, totaling 777 people. For Santa Elena, which runs a hot meal station for the homeless, Tzu Chi's donation of supplies supported their ongoing efforts to provide comfort and nourishment. 

Bringing Cheer to the Marginalized 

On November 10, volunteers climbed the mountains to visit shepherd Juan, whose life had been devastated by a snowstorm. Despite losing over 100 sheep last year, Juan now welcomed new lambs, symbolizing hope and renewal. Tzu Chi volunteers brought relief supplies and companionship, reaffirming their commitment to those in need, even in the most remote areas. 

Under the guidance of local leader Fernanda Wu (right), seven volunteers hiked up the mountains to visit shepherd Juan (second from right) and his family. | Photo by Chin-Chiu Liao | Chile | 2024/11/10

 Juan expressed sincere gratitude, saying, "Your kindness is a beautiful continuity. May God bless you for all you do." His words resonated deeply, reinforcing the power of friendship and support. Volunteers also planned to return in December with scouts to help improve his living conditions, ensuring a brighter and more comfortable start to the new year. 

Spreading Holiday Cheer 

As the holiday season approached, volunteers focused on preparing Christmas gifts for residents of three nursing homes. At volunteer Nelson's home, a dedicated team packed 125 gift sets, including pajamas, bedsheets, and bingo prizes. Each item was chosen with care to ensure the recipients would feel cherished. 

Volunteers headed to Nelson’s home to prepare Christmas gifts for three nursing homes. Together, they packed 125 gifts early, spreading love and care for the festive season. | Photo by Chin-Chiu Liao | Chile |2024/11/10 

Special touches, like fan-shaped mirrors for elderly women, showcased the volunteers’ creativity and thoughtfulness. “These gifts are more than items; they carry love and blessings,” said Fernanda Wu, reflecting the group’s collective effort to create an unforgettable holiday celebration for the seniors. 

Nurturing a Cycle of Giving 

The distribution events also highlighted Tzu Chi's focus on sustainability and giving back. Many recipients brought reusable bags, carts, or even wheelbarrows, reflecting the organization’s commitment to environmental consciousness. 

TOP: This boy eagerly joined in. With his parents' permission, he donated to the bamboo bank, planting seeds of kindness while experiencing the joy of giving. BOTTOM: A villager carried a bag of rice on his shoulder while firmly holding a bamboo bank to place his donation with care. Volunteer Fernanda Wu (second from left) stood nearby, saying, "Thank you." | Photo by Chin-Chiu Liao | Chile |2024/11/09 

Children, inspired by the event, joined the adults in contributing to bamboo banks. Among them, a scout mother and daughter duo shared smiles as they donated together, embodying the joy of giving. One elderly recipient, carrying a bag of rice on his back, paused to drop coins into a bamboo bank, a touching reminder that everyone has the capacity to help others. 

A Future Built on Love and Unity 

Through their year-end outreach, Tzu Chi volunteers in Chile showed the transformative power of compassion and collaboration. From supporting struggling families to bringing joy to the elderly, their actions exemplify how kindness transcends barriers. 

Looking ahead, the team remains focused on inspiring more people, regardless of age or background, to join the mission of alleviating suffering and spreading warmth. One step at a time, they continue to turn love into action, creating ripples of change across their communities.