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Love
in Action
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Report from Hsinchu, Formosa
Caring for the Mentally Disabled
On the eve of Mother's Day, 2002, the Hsinchu Center of the Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association held an activity for mentally disabled children at St. Joseph's Center for Special Education in Hsinchu City. The purpose of the event, called "Sharing Motherly Love--Caring for Mentally Disabled People," was to extend Master's love and concern to our handicapped brothers and sisters.
St. Joseph's Center for Special Education is the first social welfare organization designed exclusively for people suffering from medium to serious mental disabilities established in Hsinchu. With the Center almost reaching its capacity and the authorities focusing increasingly on special education for individuals aged six to fifteen, St. Joseph's Center is planning to build another campus in Lungshan named "Garden of Hope." This center will provide greater opportunities for more school-age children in need of special education.
On the morning of May 9, 2002, fellow practitioners came to St. Joseph's Center with large quantities of food, toys and clothing, and a prearranged contribution. After being warmly received by the Center's staff, we first watched a brief introductory film on the functions of the Center and the instructional methods used. We were then taken on a guided tour of the various facilities and classrooms, and observed students and teachers in action. Finally, when we distributed our gifts of love to the young students, the Center was permeated by an ambience of warmth and gratitude. We hope that our loving actions will set an example and kindle compassion in the hearts of local people, so that our socially disadvantaged compatriots can receive better care and treatment in the future.
