The World Of Tzu Chi March 2025 (Vol.153)

10 2025 • 03 A community rebuilds together Source: Sia Ah Tong & Kee King Leng The sudden flood disrupted countless lives, and for vulnerable families, the burden of recovery was especially heavy. Many children lost their uniforms and school supplies, while damaged facilities left schools struggling to reopen. Thankfully, help arrived in time to ensure a smooth return to school just two weeks later. F or Delpi, a single mother in Bintulu, the flood not only wrecked her home but also deepened her financial struggles. With three children about to start school, yet their uniforms and school supplies lay ruined, she felt helpless. Upon learning of her predicament, Tzu Chi volunteers swiftly purchased the essentials and delivered them to her. Seeing her children receive brand-new uniforms, backpacks, and stationery, Delpi was overwhelmed with gratitude. “I never expected this,” she said. “Now my children can go to school with peace of mind, and I feel relieved.” Like a guiding light in the storm, this timely assistance restored hope for Delpi and her children. Deeply moved, she expressed her wish to one day join the volunteers in giving back whenever she has a Sunday off. Help arrived in time The flood also severely impacted SJK(C) Chung Hua Sibuti and its kindergarten in Miri, leaving classrooms, the library, and other ground-floor facilities in ruins. On February 4, as teachers, students and parents gathered to clean the school, more than 20 Tzu Chi volunteers who had come for an assessment joined in the effort. When they learned that the school urgently needed desks, chairs, and cabinets to Tzu Chi volunteers joined in the cleaning effort, ensuring the children would have a clean and safe learning environment. [Photo by Jong Siew Kee] Surrounded by destruction, single mother Delpi was heartbroken. A volunteer embraced her and offered solace. [Photo by Teng Pick Cheang]