BLIA North Carolina Chapter “Spread Warmth & Love” Brings Winter Relief to Raleigh Rescue Mission
- Jan 6
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 7
[Reported by Yu Chuan, North Carolina, USA] Continuing its commitment to caring for vulnerable members of the community, the Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA), North Carolina Chapter visited the Raleigh Rescue Mission on December 22, 2025, to donate winter necessities and monetary support. Through its annual “Spread Warmth & Love” initiative, the association offered both practical assistance and heartfelt care, helping individuals in need face the winter season with warmth and dignity.
Now in its third consecutive year of partnership with the Raleigh Rescue Mission, this charitable effort reflects the compassionate spirit of Humanistic Buddhism in action. Led by Venerable Miao Jou, advising venerable of BLIA North Carolina Chapter, the delegation included Chapter President May Shiue, Vice President Gee Chia, who also serves as First Subchapter President, together with dedicated Buddha’s Light members, delivered donated supplies collected through the winter fundraising campaign to support underserved individuals and families in the Raleigh area. The North Carolina Chapter shared that the “Spread Warmth & Love” donation drive ran from November 8 to November 30 at Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple, North Carolina. With the support of the wider community, the campaign collected 13 boxes of brand-new daily necessities, including shoes, bathrobes, portable shower kits, and work clothing, along with USD 1,300 in monetary donations.
Established nearly 60 years ago, the Raleigh Rescue Mission has long served individuals and families facing hardship due to trauma, family challenges, unemployment, addiction, or health-related issues. Its mission is to break the cycle of poverty by providing not only immediate care, but also pathways for long-term recovery and renewal.
To date, the center has assisted more than 750,000 people. In addition to offering shelter and basic services, it operates a comprehensive New Life Plan that includes job training, employment counseling, and career preparation—helping participants regain independence and successfully re-enter society.
The BLIA North Carolina Chapter emphasized that all donations are carefully coordinated based on the Mission’s actual needs to ensure resources are used effectively. This year, special attention was given to donating dress shoes, recognizing their importance for job interviews and early employment. By providing appropriate attire, the chapter hopes to help individuals approach new opportunities with confidence, dignity, and a renewed sense of possibility.
Buddha’s Light member Zhang Yin, who participated in the delivery for the first time, shared that organizing and transporting the supplies was a deeply moving experience. She reflected that everyday items often taken for granted can become vital sources of comfort during the cold winter months. “Something as simple as a pair of slippers or a bathrobe can offer real warmth and reassurance to someone in need,” she shared.
She added that the experience strengthened her appreciation for compassion and gratitude and reaffirmed her belief that kindness does not need to be grand to be meaningful. “Even small, sincere actions can bring warmth to others,” she said, expressing her hope to continue participating in community service in the future.