Buddhist Compassion Relief Tzu Chi Foundation

At least 40 people were killed in the magnitude-6.4 earthquake that rocked southern Taiwan on 2/6. At this time, over 100 people are still missing, and almost 500 injured.

In Tainan, volunteers of Taiwan Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation mobilized within minutes after the earthquake happened. For the past 80 hours, Tzu Chi volunteers have tirelessly provided humanitarian aid for the survivors and accompanied the rescuers.

Presently, Tzu Chi’s relief aid has included:

• Over 20 service stations and care in 10 hospitals.
• Care for over 100 survivors in 10 different hospitals, who have received emergency cash
• Care for over 258 affected families, who have received emergency cash
• Over 3 million NT dollars （one hundred thousand USD） delivered to the survivors and affected families
• Over 3000 volunteers have joined the humanitarian aid
• Over 15 doctors and medical staff have joined the relief aid
• Over 10,000 hot meals provided for survivors, family members and rescue workers, day and night
• Over 400 Jing Si foldable beds provided for survivors and rescue workers
• Over 1500 eco-blankets, scarfs, caps, warm gloves, and relief packs
• 5 eco heaters for rescue workers
• Over 60 thousand volunteers in ten countries around the world pray every day for the survivors and those missing

Dharma Master Cheng Yen, founder of the Tzu Chi Foundation, expressed her concern for all those affected by the earthquake, as well as the rescue workers and all the volunteers who have joined the relief effort. This disaster has truly shown the treasure of love and goodness in Taiwan. Friends, abroad and the international media have also shown their concern for the people in need.

She said, "When we see so many people contributing, this shows the warmth of our society. It has once again demonstrated that Love and Kindness are the treasures of Taiwan. Many organizations have mobilized their volunteers, and many entrepreneurs have donated money. They have all expressed their willingness to help. Young people, students and adults also want to help. Nevertheless, we pray for those who are believed to be still trapped in the buildings. I hope people can use their wisdom and strength and not give up on them. I hope everyone can be saved. Let us pray sincerely for them."