In 1966, Taiwan faced significant economic challenges. Over 1.3 million people lived in poverty, U.S. aid had ceased, and resources were scarce. Amid this hardship, Master Cheng Yen chose to remain in Hualien, despite her teacher, Master Yin Shun, encouraging her to move to southwestern Taiwan. Her decision was influenced by her followers’ pleas and a profound question from three Catholic nuns: “What have Buddhists done for society?” 

This question stayed with Master Cheng Yen and prompted her to reflect on how to bring the Buddha’s teachings into society to help those in need. Around the same time, she witnessed an incident that deeply affected her: an Indigenous woman experiencing a difficult labor was turned away from treatment as she could not afford the medical deposit. This reinforced Master Cheng Yen’s determination to find a way to alleviate suffering for the impoverished. 

In April 1966, she shared her idea with five disciples and two local supporters. Though they worried about the lack of funds, Master Cheng Yen proposed a simple yet powerful solution: save 50 cents a day (about 2 cents USD). Using bamboo coin banks, they began setting aside small daily savings, proving that even modest contributions could create meaningful change. 

In May 1966, Tzu Chi was officially established. This marked a turning point in Master Cheng Yen’s life—from focusing on self-cultivation to actively working to improve the lives of others. 

What began with thirty housewives saving a bit of their grocery money each day has grown into a global humanitarian movement. Today, Tzu Chi continues to provide care and support to people worldwide, inspired by the vision and compassion of Master Cheng Yen. 

Learn more about Tzu Chi’s history here: History | Tzu Chi Charity Foundation