Bringing Comfort and Smiles to People in Plight
By Paris News Group (Originally in French)
Torrential rains flooded the east-central parts of France in November 2008, with “Rive de Gier” being the most seriously damaged community. In certain areas, the water reached two meters in height, affecting the lives of about 500 families and forcing many to evacuate their homes. In these tragic circumstances, the city hall quickly put into place a support network, the local supermarkets provided sufficient amounts of food for all, and the hotels offered mattresses. 
When Master heard of this disaster, She contributed US$15,000 to assist with the relief work that was conducted by our Association members from Paris, Lyon and Southern France. Together, they purchased then packed supplies including clothes, utensils, blanket, etc. into boxes and loaded them into a truck for distribution. For children, they prepared special gifts such as chocolates and teddy bears. In the morning of November 9, 2008, they arrived at Rive de Gier and were welcomed by the responsible aid officials, who directed them to the temporary shelters housing the relocated people. With the help of the local citizens, the relief packages as well as envelopes with cash were lovingly given to the needy people. Everyone was very happy to receive the timely aid. Ms. Marchand,
the Deputy Mayor of Rive de Gier, who coordinated the distribution,
thanked Master for Her loving concern. May more people in France quickly
awaken to the importance of keeping a compassionate vegan lifestyle
to avoid future disasters.
Expenditures by Supreme Master Ching Hai for the Flood Relief Work
in Rive de Giers – France
* Throughout the relief operation, fellow initiates paid for their own transportation, food and accommodation expenses. 
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