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TIMA Peru

The Days in Peru

From late 1997 to early 1998, the El Nino phenomenon brought severe storms that caused floods in many parts of Peru. Fields and houses were seriously damaged, and hundreds of people died as a result of the floods. Infectious diseases such as malaria and cholera also became prevalent in the flood areas. According to studies by the University of Peru, the floods affected as many as 330,000 people. In August this year, TIMA dispatched a relief team again to help the flood victims on site. A three year follow-up assistance program is also being planned for the disaster areas.

The TIMA relief team consisted of members from the Tzu-Chi Free Clinic in Los Angeles, Houston, Chicago, Cleveland, Argentina and Taiwan. They went to the 17 most damaged cities to distribute necessities and medical supplies. In addition, they held health services in seven areas that needed medical care the most. To help the victims deal with emergency situations, TIMA also prepared 2000 first aid kits for them. Inside each first aid kit, there was the following letter written by TIMA chairman, Master Shih Cheng Yen:

August 15, 1998

To My Dear Friends in Peru:

Although Peru is thousands of miles away from Taiwan, we learned from our branch in Argentina and the mass media that your country is suffering from the devastating effects of El Nino. We know that continuous storms have washed away many farm fields, broken bridges and destroyed roads. Schools and community health centers have also been severely damaged. Moreover, many people have lost their homes. I am very sad and concerned to hear about this situation.

I cannot bear to think of the plight all of you are facing. After each flood, not only are you distressed and afraid, but you also lack necessities such as clothing, food and medical supplies. In addition to Tzu-Chi members in Taiwan, our branches in Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay and the United States are also as deeply concerned about you safety as I am. All Tzu-Chi people are willing to donate money and devote efforts to show that they truly care.

The Tzu-Chi Foundation was originated in Taiwan. Our spirit lies in;"to relieve with compassion; to give with joy", and our love stems from our empathy for peoples suffering. Our missions are to help the poor and educate the rich. Over the past 32 years, we have reached out to every town in Taiwan and many corners around the world. Our love is spread worldwide to countries such as Rwanda, Ethiopia, South Africa, Cambodia, Nepal, Tibet, Afghanistan and Mexico.

Today, Tzu-Chi members from Taiwan, USA, Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay bring with them the love of Tzu-Chi people from all over the world. They are here to comfort you and Provide you with emergency medical supplies and necessities. I thank the Taiwanese Consulate in Peru and the Red crisis for facilitating this opportunity to serve you. I also regret that I am not able to be with you in person. This letter represents my deep sincerity for you. May your suffering end and joy come. May your body and mind be free from burden and have peace.

Sincerely yours,

Shih Cheng Yen
President
Buddhist Tzu-Chi Compassion Relief Foundation

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