Ling Shen Ching Tze Temple Winter Relief Program
Helping Those in Need Through the Harsh Winter
[Ling Shen Ching Tze Temple, Seattle]
Guided by the teachings of Root Guru Living Buddha Lian Sheng Grandmaster Lu, Ling Shen Ching Tze Temple has for many years carried out charitable giving every December to help people in need survive the cold winter months. Beginning in early November this year, during Saturday group cultivation sessions and Sunday Homa ceremonies, the Temple called upon members to contribute generously and participate in this compassionate effort. Many supporters who donate year after year once again responded with kindness and enthusiasm.
In addition, proceeds raised from two “Lotus Festival”charity fairs held earlier this year were also dedicated to this cause. As a result, the Temple donated a total of US $25,000 for this year’s Winter Relief Program—a record high—hoping to provide meaningful support and warmth to vulnerable communities during the harsh winter.
On the morning of December 23 at 9:00 a.m., Abbot Master Lian Yin, Master Lianhua Bi-Jen, Master Lian Wang, Reverend Lian En, and volunteer Morgan set out on behalf of Ling Shen Ching Tze Temple to deliver donations to three charitable organizations.
The first stop was Hopelink, a local nonprofit organization. Melissa and Debbie warmly welcomed the Temple representatives and gratefully accepted the donation while explaining how their organization assists families in need. Upon entering the food storage and distribution area, the group saw neatly organized shelves filled with baked goods, oatmeal, canned food, baby food, fresh fruits and vegetables, root crops, and refrigerated items.
While Melissa and Debbie were introducing their operations, a delivery truck arrived at the back entrance. Four or five elderly volunteers with gray hair were busy unloading boxes of food donated by supermarkets—items nearing their expiration dates but still perfectly edible. Each box was heavy, requiring effort to carry and lift onto the storage racks, a scene that vividly reflected their dedication and compassion.
The second stop was Food Lifeline, located near Seattle–Tacoma International Airport. Gabriela and Leeann gladly received the Temple’s donation and led the group into the work area, where volunteers of all ages—children, teenagers, young adults, and middle-aged individuals—were busy packing and boxing food. Nearby shelves, stacked three to four people high, were filled with large cartons of supplies.
Gabriela and Leeann explained that Food Lifeline operates on a large scale, supported by approximately 14,000 volunteers each year. Anyone aged ten or older can volunteer. All food is packed and delivered to food banks and relief agencies throughout the region, which then distribute it to families and individuals facing hardship.
The final stop was the Rainier Valley Food Bank. Upon arrival, the Temple representatives saw 20 to 30 people waiting outside to receive food. With temperatures around 10°C (50°F) and cold winds blowing, everyone was bundled in heavy clothing. Anna Stumm welcomed the group and gratefully accepted the Temple’s donation.
Anna then guided the group into the food distribution area, where community members pushed shopping carts or strollers with babies while selecting items such as fresh vegetables, fruits, beverages, and canned goods from the shelves. In the work area, volunteers were wrapping vegetables in plastic, preparing large bags of assorted food to be delivered to elderly residents who are homebound and unable to come in person.
“As the saying goes, ‘Virtue is never alone; it always brings companions.’” Carrying the loving contributions of many Temple members, Ling Shen Ching Tze Temple was honored to support Hopelink, Food Lifeline, and the Rainier Valley Food Bank. Seeing volunteers ranging from young children to senior citizens working together was both heartwarming and inspiring. May this warmth of compassion spread throughout the world, purify hearts, and lead all beings toward peace and harmony.