Country: Japan Source: Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation Please refer to the attached file. In the wake of devastating wildfires that swept through the forests of Ofunato earlier this year, Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation (BTCF) volunteers returned once again to provide urgently needed relief and compassion to survivors—many of whom had previously been assisted by the foundation during the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami.In late February and early March 2025, wildfires destroyed homes and forestlands in northern Japan’s Iwate Prefecture, leaving families displaced and traumatized. Quickly responding to the call for help, the Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation mobilized its Japan chapter to bring not only food and financial aid, but also emotional support to the affected communities.Delivering Relief with Familiar CompassionOn April 5 and 6, volunteers established a relief station in Ofunato’s community center, where they served hot meals and distributed consolation funds. The comforting aroma of mapo tofu and Chinese-style rice bowls brought not only nourishment but also solace to survivors. For many, these meals symbolized more than food—they were reminders that they had not been forgotten.“This is delicious,” said Yuno, a survivor who had initially kept to himself. “I’ll bring more people from the shelter tomorrow.” Another resident, Sodeno, who lost his home to both the 2011 tsunami and now the wildfire, remained hopeful: “We’ll rebuild,” he said, as his mother promised volunteers that they would send photos once their new home is complete.One particularly poignant moment came when Noriko (alias), a cancer survivor who had rebuilt after the tsunami only to lose her home again, found inspiration in a Jing Si aphorism attached to a donated blanket: “No matter what difficulties we encounter in life, as long as we face them mindfully, even the greatest challenges will seem small.”A total of 67 volunteers participated in the effort, including 23 from the Tohoku region. Many, like the Yoshidas from Kesennuma and local volunteer Katayama, were themselves recipients of Tzu Chi’s past assistance and had since become dedicated volunteers. “Tzu Chi helped me when I had nothing. Now, it’s my turn to give back,” said Katayama.Legacy of Presence in JapanTzu Chi’s bond with Japan dates back nearly two decades. Since 2005, the foundation has responded to major disasters across the country, including the 2007 Niigata earthquake and the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake. Most recently, the foundation launched a wide-scale relief operation following the January 2024 Noto Peninsula Earthquake, one of Japan’s most severe disasters in recent years.The 7.6-magnitude earthquake struck Ishikawa Prefecture, triggering a tsunami and widespread fires. Infrastructure collapsed, isolating the northern Noto region. Tzu Chi swiftly coordinated with local authorities and hospitals to deliver emergency relief, including over 13,000 hot meals, more than 15,000 cash aid distributions, and nearly 11,000 coffee and tea servings through a temporary café at Anamizu General Hospital.The foundation also implemented a pioneering “Cash for Work” initiative, hiring local residents—many of whom had lost their jobs—to help cook meals and distribute aid. In a culture where in-person cash relief is rare, many recipients were moved to tears. “I didn't think I deserved it,” one elderly woman said. “But the kindness and sincerity of the volunteers gave me hope.”Continuing the MissionAs Tzu Chi Japan CEO Li-Shing Shyu stated during the Ofunato wildfire response, “We’re here not just to provide aid, but to show that they’re not alone.” This ethos has defined the foundation’s presence across Japan. In every disaster, Tzu Chi has strived not only to rebuild homes but to restore hope and dignity.Looking ahead, the organization remains committed to supporting Japan’s vulnerable communities—be it in the aftermath of fire, earthquake, or future emergencies. The enduring spirit of kizuna—the Japanese word for bond—continues to guide every act of compassion, ensuring that, together, no one faces hardship alone.The Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation is a global non-profit humanitarian organization founded in 1966 by Buddhist nun Dharma Master Cheng Yen. Its missions of medicine, charity, education, and humanistic culture have brought relief to 136 countries. The heart of Tzu Chi is embedded in its name: in Chinese, “Tzu” means compassion and “Chi” relief, to relieve the suffering of those in need while creating a better world for all through compassion, love and hope. For more information, visit tzuchi.us. For additional information and media inquiries, welcome to contact us through this form.