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On November 8, 2025, the beginning of winter was greeted by rare, fair weather, as if nature itself was offering a warm blessing for this year’s winter aid distribution in Richmond. Since planning began in late August, every step—from strategy and site visits to coordination, procurement, and packaging—was seamlessly linked, showcasing the team’s spirit of harmonious cooperation..
A Morning of Giving Warms The Salvation Army
This year’s event was more extensive than ever. In addition to distributing supplies, it newly featured a vegetarian lunch and free haircut services, meeting the practical needs of the shelter’s temporary residents and reflecting Tzu Chi’s long-standing spirit of heartfelt care.
On the morning of the event, the Richmond office was bustling with activity. Culinary volunteers were busy in the kitchen preparing hot vegetarian boxed meals, while other volunteers loaded gift bags and decorative materials into vehicles, heading for The Salvation Army – Richmond House Emergency Shelter.
Upon arrival, everyone worked together to quickly set up the venue and arrange the flow of the event. They also invited The Salvation Army staff for a group photo. The event began with a warm opening address from the Richmond Community Leader and a welcome to the volunteer hairdressers. Next, the event host introduced the significance of the day and Tzu Chi’s missions, gradually enlivening the atmosphere with joy and anticipation.
A New Beginning with Free Haircuts, A Spark of Kindness
The free haircut service was the first activity, providing grooming for twenty residents who had signed up in advance. This service not only refreshed their appearance but also strengthened their inner spirit. Meanwhile, the film “The Footprints of Great Love” was played in the haircut area, giving residents a chance to learn about Tzu Chi’s charitable work and its founding principle of compassion as they received their haircuts.
To build a deeper connection of love and care, this year’s event featured an interactive “Q&A with Small Rewards.” Volunteers guided residents to draw Jing Si Aphorism cards and share their thoughts inspired by the messages on the cards, using the words to uplift their spirits.
The host then used the gestures of “palm up, palm down” to explain the origin and spirit of the “Bamboo Bank Era.” Deeply moved, one resident immediately dropped all the coins he had into a bamboo bank, adding a touching new chapter to the story of giving.
With the provision of a vegetarian lunch, volunteers took the opportunity to chat with residents about their thoughts on the food, receiving an enthusiastic response as many raised their hands to share their feedback.
A Chorus of Sign Language, A Ray of Winter Sunshine
Before the official distribution, all volunteers led a sign language performance of the song “One Family,” symbolizing that love knows no borders and that all people are one. A resident named Botina spontaneously joined the performance, sharing that she already knew the song because she deeply believes, “Love flows between our hearts and makes us one family.” In that moment, the room was filled with genuine joy and emotion.
As the distribution began, volunteers formed neat lines, respectfully handing gift bags and blessings to each resident. After receiving their supplies, residents gathered in the dining area to enjoy hot vegetarian meals and fruit. Seeing the long-absent smiles on their faces brought the volunteers great comfort. Many residents expressed their sincere gratitude, mentioning how the thoughtful arrangements of winter supplies, hot food, and free haircuts made them feel cared for and respected on the cusp of winter.
Tzu Chi volunteers brought so much joy and energy with their genuine interaction and games. The laughter and gratitude from the residents filled the space with love and hope. Several seniors, in particular, said that this sense of community was something they hadn’t experienced at other shelters. This really showed me the unique value of partnering with Tzu Chi.
— Siji Jones, Shelter Manager
The event concluded successfully at 12:30 PM. Filled with joy and gratitude, the volunteers cleaned up the venue, bringing the heartwarming distribution to a perfect close.
This event once again proves that good deeds are accomplished through the collective efforts of many. The moment we hear of someone in need and have the opportunity to lend a hand, the Bodhisattva spirit within us awakens. As long as we hold this kindness in our hearts, are willing to listen and observe more, and start by taking small steps to give, the ripples of love will continue to spread, creating an endless cycle of goodness. Just as a Jing Si Aphorism says: “The mind is the sanctuary.”