Ling Shen Ching Tze Temple’s Winter Relief Program
Helping Those in Need Through the Harsh Winter
【Ling Shen Ching Tze Temple, Seattle】

Guided by the teachings of Root Guru Living Buddha Liansheng, Ling Shen Ching Tze Temple (LSCTT) has, for many years, carried out charitable giving every December to help those in need survive the cold winter months. Beginning in early November this year, during Saturday group cultivation sessions and Sunday homa ceremonies, the temple called upon members to give generously and participate in this compassionate cause. Many have donated year after year, and once again, everyone responded with kindness and generosity.

On the morning of December 23 at 9:00 a.m., Abbot Master Lianyin, Master Lianhuabijen, Master Lianwang, Reverend Lian'en, and volunteer Morgan set out on behalf of LSCTT to deliver donations to three charitable organizations.

Their first stop was Hopelink, a local nonprofit organization. Melissa and Debbie warmly welcomed the Temple representatives and gratefully accepted the donation, explaining how the organization provides assistance to families in need. Upon entering the food storage and distribution area, the group saw neatly organized shelves stocked with baked goods, oatmeal, canned food, baby food, fresh produce, root vegetables, and refrigerated items.

While Melissa and Debbie were giving their introduction, a delivery truck arrived at the back entrance. Four or five elderly volunteers, all with gray hair, were busy unloading boxes of food donated by supermarkets—items approaching their expiration dates but still perfectly edible. Each box was heavy, requiring considerable effort to carry and lift onto the shelves. Their dedication and strength were deeply moving.

The second stop was Food Lifeline, located near Seattle–Tacoma International Airport. Gabriela and Leeann happily received the temple’s donation and led the group into the operations area. There, volunteers of all ages—children, teenagers, young adults, and middle-aged individuals—were busily packing and boxing food. Towering shelves, three to four people high, were stacked with large boxes of supplies.

Gabriela and Leeann explained that Food Lifeline is a large-scale organization with approximately 14,000 volunteers each year. Anyone aged ten or older can volunteer. Food is packed and then delivered to food banks and relief agencies throughout the region, which in turn distribute it to families and individuals in need.

The final stop was the Rainier Valley Food Bank. When the temple group arrived, they saw 20 to 30 people lined up outside waiting to receive food. With temperatures around 10°C (50°F) and cold winds blowing, everyone was bundled in heavy clothing. Anna Stumm welcomed the temple representatives and gratefully accepted their donation.

Anna then guided them through the food distribution area, where people pushed shopping carts or strollers with babies as they selected items from the shelves—fresh vegetables, fruits, beverages, canned goods, and more. In the work area, volunteers were wrapping vegetables in plastic. They were assembling large bags of food to be delivered to elderly residents who are homebound and unable to come in person.

“As the saying goes, ‘Virtue is never alone; it always brings companionship.’”
Carrying the loving donations of many temple members, LSCTT was honored to support Hopelink, Food Lifeline, and the Rainier Valley Food Bank. Seeing volunteers ranging from children to elderly seniors working side by side was both joyful and deeply touching. May this warmth of compassion spread throughout society, purify hearts, and lead all beings toward peace and harmony.

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