Rebuilding Lives After Disaster 

In September 2024, Typhoon Yagi struck Chiang Rai in northern Thailand, causing severe flooding that displaced families and disrupted lives. Tzu Chi volunteers immediately assessed the situation in Lin Ko and Mae Sai districts, distributing 500 aid packages to meet urgent needs. 

Flooding rendered many villages inaccessible, prompting the Tzu Chi Thailand office to return on October 4 for a four-day survey of urban and rural areas. The detailed assessments paved the way for the next phase of aid distribution. 

After distributing blessing funds, volunteers visited Grandma Jamnian’s new home to offer warm support. | Photo: Pinticha Jansuksri | Thailand | 2024/10

Empowering Communities with Care 

On October 29–30, Tzu Chi distributed blessing funds to approximately 900 households in Mae Sai and Chiang Rai city. The heartfelt initiative garnered praise from local officials. Acting Mayor Sitthisak Injaikham remarked, "Taiwan Tzu Chi’s love and care brought blessing funds to our affected residents. On behalf of Mae Sai, I thank Tzu Chi for their support, which has given our community strength and courage to rebuild." 

LEFT: Volunteers provide warmth and practical assistance to disaster survivors. RIGHT: Blessing funds are respectfully presented to beneficiaries. | Photos by Pinticha Jansuksri | Thailand | 2024/10

Chiang Rai Town Mayor Aphirak echoed these sentiments, saying, "I am deeply grateful for Master Cheng Yen’s compassion, which brought blessing funds to our residents. On behalf of all the disaster survivors, I express my sincere thanks." 

Stories of Resilience and Compassion 

Among those impacted was Surapha’s family in Mai Yao village. The flood destroyed her house and shop, leaving her in despair. The blessing fund offered by Tzu Chi became a lifeline. Tearfully, she said, "I am deeply grateful that Tzu Chi remembered us, listened to our voices, and extended a helping hand. This love and care are my greatest support in this difficult time." 

LEFT: Locals smile with joy after receiving Tzu Chi’s blessings. RIGHT: Shun-Ling Lin explains the significance of the blessing red packets to survivors. | Photos by Pinticha Jansuksri | Thailand | 2024/10

Thanat, whose home was also devastated, was inspired by Tzu Chi volunteers. Although his family survived unharmed, the destruction left him feeling hopeless—until Tzu Chi’s aid arrived. Touched by the volunteers’ compassion, Thanat asked, "Can I help?" He then joined them, transforming from a recipient to a giver, spreading hope to others. 

A Light Amidst Darkness 

Tzu Chi’s aid extended to Grandma Tip, who had lost her home and found herself in a shelter. Volunteers provided blessing funds and emotional support, enabling her son to begin rebuilding their home. Tip shared, "I just want to go home…" The assistance lightened their financial burden, secured her granddaughter’s education, and gave her family a renewed sense of stability. 

Volunteers visit and provide assistance to Grandma Tip again, giving her blessing funds. | Photo by Rei-Lien Sun | Thailand | 2024/10

For Grandma Jamnian, whose lifetime shelter was declared uninhabitable, the road to recovery seemed impossible. Despite the risks, she frequently returned to her damaged home for solace. Tzu Chi volunteers urged her to prioritize safety, providing blessing funds to support her son’s rebuilding efforts. Their care gave her hope for a secure future. 

Volunteers visit Grandma Jamnian, offering comfort and blessing funds. | Photo: Pinticha Jansuksri | Thailand | 2024/10

Hope Illuminates Every Corner 

Laddawan, who lost her riverside guesthouse, faced her struggles without government aid. The arrival of Tzu Chi volunteers brought much-needed relief. Their blessing funds and compassionate support inspired her to begin restoring her home, reigniting her determination to move forward. 

Volunteer Jaruwan Heepthamai hugs Ladawan, giving her moral support. | Photos by Pin-Ti Su | Thailand | 2024/10

Through acts of kindness and solidarity, Tzu Chi has touched countless lives in flood-stricken Northern Thailand. Their unwavering love has turned despair into hope, empowering survivors to rebuild their lives and communities.