Emergency Response: Earthquake in Hualien, Taiwan

After the devastating earthquake on April 3, Belle found herself struggling to keep her family afloat. With five young children to care for, the pressure of providing for her family was overwhelming. The economic strain was immense, and the future seemed uncertain.

But hope arrived when Fiona Kao, a project worker at The Mustard Seed Mission's Hualien Vocational Training Center, offered Belle an opportunity through the Cash for Work program. This initiative was designed to help families like Belle's rebuild their lives after the disaster by providing them with meaningful employment. Belle, who had a passion for baking, eagerly took up the offer and joined the baking team at the center.

In the bakery, Belle found more than just a job. She discovered a supportive community, with Fiona and other team members guiding her every step of the way. The work was challenging, especially with the added responsibility of her children, but Belle was determined. As she learned to craft traditional mooncakes for the upcoming Mid-Autumn Festival, she also began to rebuild her confidence and her family's stability.

The income Belle earned not only helped her meet her family's immediate needs but also brought a sense of normalcy back into their lives. The Mid-Autumn Festival, a time of reunion and gratitude, took on new meaning for Belle and her children. The mooncakes she baked became a symbol of hope, and the support from MSM reminded her that she was not alone in this journey.

Through the Cash for Work program, The Mustard Seed Mission is helping families like Belle's regain their footing after the earthquake. By providing employment and a supportive environment, MSM is not only helping to rebuild homes but also restoring hope and dignity to those affected by the disaster.

Service Spotlight: Reflecting on April's Earthquake Relief Efforts

As we look back on the critical relief efforts initiated in April following the devastating earthquake in Hualien, the words of the residents continue to resonate deeply with us: “When the supplies finally came through…” These words moved our project worker, Pinghan, as the team worked tirelessly to address the urgent needs of the disaster-stricken community.

In the aftermath of the earthquake, The Mustard Seed Mission (MSM) quickly mobilized to reach the heart of the affected areas. Despite hazardous roads littered with debris and landslides, our team raced against time to deliver essential supplies to the nearly isolated Qnragan tribe, offering them not just material aid but also prayers and emotional support.

The April 3rd earthquake dealt a significant blow to Hualien's primary tourism and service sectors. The impact was particularly harsh on residents and vulnerable families, who now face urgent housing repairs and severe economic challenges. The cessation of tourism has led to widespread job losses, affecting many like Lin, who, having worked in the mountains, now finds himself unemployed with two school-aged children and loans to manage.

Faced with shattered homes and uncertain futures, MSM activated its Community Support Network. Guided by the principles of Gospel, Support, and Empowerment, we launched our post disaster recovery efforts. Our repair teams have been tirelessly working to provide both structural repairs and seismic reinforcements for homes.

Now, as we transition into the long-term recovery phase, our focus has shifted towards providing Sustained Economic Support and implementing the Cash for Work program. This initiative offers employment opportunities to those affected, enabling them to earn an income while participating in community recovery projects. By helping families stabilize and rebuild their lives, we are fostering economic resilience and empowering individuals to regain their livelihoods.