The world of Tzu Chi October 2020 (Vol.127)

TZU CHI 127 43 lobal News T emperatures soared to 38˚C in Southern California in late August 2020. However, this did not stop Tzu Chi volunteers in Orange county to hold a “drive- through” food distribution at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- Day Saints in Santa Ana. It was the first time such interfaith collaboration came about for a vegetable-and-fruit distribution. Adopting a contactless approach, vegetables, fruits, dry goods, rice, beans, canned food and other food supplies were distributed to 702 needy households, with assistance and support from the church, community service groups and the police. Despite the blazing sun, the volunteers in long-sleeved uniforms and fully geared with masks, goggles and gloves served contentedly, appreciating their first food distribution in Orange county since the stay-at-home order was implemented in March. Since 2011, Tzu Chi volunteers in Orange county has been reaching out to students through the Happy Campus programme, ensuring that the children do not go hungry; and since 2013, free clinics have been held thrice a year. It was followed by distribution of fresh vegetables and fruits commencing 2017. As the free clinic services and Happy Campus programme have been suspended due to the stay-at-home order and closure of schools, the volunteers made the effort to call patients with chronic diseases quarterly and help replenish their medications by post, while sending food supplies to Principal Lisa of Madison Elementary School monthly from April to July, for her to distribute to needy student families. Jose Solorio, City Councilmember in Santa Ana, thanked the church, Orange County Foodbank, Boys and Girls Club, the police, Tzu Chi and other units for coming together for the distribution event, as many people living in high-risk Santa Ana were in need of help. USA 2020.08.22 Distributing Food in Santa Ana Reported by Tzu Chi Documenting Team Translated by Yi Qin Photograph courtesy of Tzu Chi Taiwan