[Taichung]
On January 31, a major drive to provide
care for the homeless people in Taichung was jointly convened by the Taichung
Municipal Government and civil charity groups.
The loving concern and meticulous care shown by these volunteers really
deserves our praise. Clothes and shoes were distributed on the spot, and
many services were provided such as bathing, haircuts, health education,
free medical care, personal interviews and meals.
After
a haircut and a bath, and changing into new clothes, the homeless people
looked completely new. The sick were taken care of by medical, surgical,
dental, and dermatology experts. At the same time, health and social workers
took the opportunity to persuade the homeless to move into accommodation
homes, while giving them guidance about health in daily life.
This activity was
convened by the Taichung Municipal Government and was cosponsored by the
Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association, Buddhist Compassion
relief Tzu-Chi Foundation, Ci Xin Charity Association, and the Volunteer
Team from the Veterans General Hospital. Several days before the program
began, fellow practitioners of the Taichung Center began combing the streets
and lanes at midnight, looking for the homeless, and giving them invitation
cards and gifts. On the day of the event, fellow practitioners were responsible
for receiving the homeless, giving them haircuts, and providing bathing
facilities for them.
