The El Menahil International School auditorium in Istanbul, Türkiye, was filled with warmth and a sense of community on a recent winter afternoon. Starting November 7, Tzu Chi Türkiye hosted a three-day winter distribution event, holding twelve sessions to provide financial assistance to Syrian families and raise funds for the people in Gaza. This initiative brought together a gentle yet firm force of love and care, transcending borders.
Volunteers arrived early to assist Syrian families with verifying their identity as well as guiding parents and children to their seats, maintaining a peaceful and orderly atmosphere.
A warm gathering
Nadya Chou (周如意), a Tzu Chi volunteer, expressed her joy at the gathering. “It’s wonderful to see everyone today because we love each other and are one family,” she said. “Children who graduate from here and enter society will become people who help others. We hope everyone can also contribute to helping families in Gaza find hope again.”
Principal Münir of El Menahil International School shared a poignant reflection. “In a mosque, people praying shoulder to shoulder represent the deepest connection,” he noted. “Today, I see a similar scene—teachers, students, and volunteers supporting each other, transmitting love and trust. May the seeds of goodness and love sprout in every heart.”
Principal Ahmed echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of gratitude and good character. “Please cherish this sacred Friday, and remember Allah with a grateful heart,” he urged. “We teach our children to have good morals and sincere love, and not to forget our brothers and sisters in Gaza. This is a shared responsibility and mission.”
Nurturing compassion
Faisal Hu (胡光中), the main contact person for Tzu Chi in Türkiye, reflected on a decade of dedicated support. “Ten years ago, we walked the streets looking for children. Today, they carry their school bags to class,” he recounted. “The local mayor once said that among over 800 cities in Türkiye, this is the only place where there no child beggars or water vendors, thanks to the Tzu Chi school. We hope these children will grow up to give back to society.”
The impact of this nurturing environment is evident in the students themselves. Ragad Eyub, a student volunteer, shared her experience: “Learning and serving here makes me feel the warmth of home. Teachers and volunteers are like family, caring for and encouraging each other. I hope to graduate from here and continue to grow in this loving place.”
Another student volunteer, Muhammad, added, “I’ve been serving here for two years and have learned to help others. Although I can never fully repay the kindness of my teachers, I will continue to do my best. For me, this is not just a school; it’s my home.”
Sustained support
The long-term commitment of Tzu Chi has provided stability and hope for many families. Ragat, a representative of the beneficiary families, received her subsidy with her two sons. “I am very grateful to Tzu Chi Foundation for years of help,” she said. “I have faced difficulties over these years, and Tzu Chi has given me strength and hope.”
As the event concluded, volunteers exchanged handshakes and farewells with the Syrian families. Smiles and blessings intertwined, creating a moving scene. This quiet compassion has left an indelible mark in everyone’s heart, demonstrating how collective kindness can bring comfort and renewed hope to those in need.
Written by Nadya Chou (周如意)
