By Denny Chou | Supervisor, International Mktg Resource Centre
When a powerful 7.2-magnitude earthquake struck Hualien, Taiwan, on April 3, 2024, it did more than shake the ground—it disrupted countless lives. Amid fallen buildings and uncertainty, a remarkable story unfolded: a community united in recovery, with The Mustard Seed Mission (MSM) leading the way.
Immediate Action: Providing Shelter and Stability
Within hours of the earthquake, MSM teams worked alongside local governments and community leaders to ensure everyone had a safe place to stay. The Vocational Training Center in Hualien became a temporary home, offering essentials like food, water, and shelter. Over the recovery period, MSM provided 2,845 overnight stays and served 7,239 meals, offering much-needed comfort during challenging times.
Supporting Emotional and Physical Recovery
Recovery isn’t just about rebuilding homes; it’s also about restoring spirits. MSM created spaces for emotional healing by organizing activities for children and stress-relief workshops for adults. Prayer spaces and moments of connection helped families find solace. The physical rebuilding efforts were equally significant. MSM assessed and repaired 61 severely damaged homes in Hualien, Taoyuan, and Haiduan, enabling families to return to safer, sturdier homes.
Empowering Communities Through Work
One of MSM’s key initiatives was the “Cash for Work” Empowerment program, which gave community members an active role in the recovery process. From clearing debris to packaging local products for MSM’s social enterprise, participants contributed meaningfully while earning income. By November, 84 individuals had completed 18,753.5 work hours, showcasing the community’s resilience and determination.
Building Toward a Better Future
Beyond immediate relief, MSM’s efforts focused on long-term recovery. Monthly financial assistance supported 19 families, while essential items like appliances and furniture helped transform houses back into homes. These measures ensured that families could rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.
Gratitude for Global Support
None of these achievements would have been possible without the generosity of supporters worldwide. Your contributions not only provided immediate relief but also empowered a community to rise again. Because of your support, families in Hualien have regained stability and hope for the future.
As this project comes to a close, MSM remains dedicated to serving those in need. Together, we’ve shown that when disaster strikes, communities can rebuild stronger through unity and compassion.
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