Written by Chihhung Hsu
Translated by H.B. Qin
Edited by Adriana DiBenedetto
In May of 2025, a tornado outbreak swept across multiple states in the U.S. Midwest. One of these was Indiana, wherein the city of Linton experienced the tragic effects. On the afternoon of May 16, severe thunderstorms had developed and moved across central Indiana into the evening. Then, tornadoes, hail, and widespread damage had been unleashed, with winds gusting over 80 mph in some areas.
After the disaster had cleared, Tzu Chi USA’s Indianapolis Service Center volunteers swiftly obtained the list of affected households through the American Red Cross. With this information at the ready, they actively coordinated with county agencies to conduct an assessment mission, which was followed by a disaster relief cash card distribution at the Linton Health Department’s emergency response center on June 29.
New and Veteran Volunteers Join Hands
As the distribution occurred during the summer vacation, many regular volunteers were away from the city. With this, Tzu Chi’s Indianapolis Service Center mobilized newly joined volunteers, alongside Tzu Chi collegiate volunteers, also known as Tzu Ching, and Tzu Chi youth volunteers, also known as Tzu Shao, who recently graduated from high school, to participate. The team of twenty volunteers departed at dawn and drove for two hours to Linton. By 10 AM, they were already setting up the venue, meticulously reviewing every detail to ensure the warmest welcome for survivors.
Moved by the volunteers’ efforts, local firefighters and former State Senator John Waterman also joined hands to help with the setup. Before the distribution began, volunteers rehearsed the sign language performance, “One Family,” hoping to convey their sincerest blessings through this heartfelt piece.
Care From the Heart
As guests arrived at the venue, volunteers provided attentive support at every step, patiently guiding the survivors through identity verification, registration, form completion, and explaining how the distribution process worked. The volunteers then read a letter of condolence and care from Tzu Chi’s founder, Dharma Master Cheng Yen, conveying a warmth that transcended borders. They also introduced survivors to the origin and philosophy behind Tzu Chi’s cash cards, eco-blankets, and other Jing Si items prepared by Tzu Chi.
Also at this distribution event were City Councilwoman Linda Bedwell, former State Senator John Waterman, and Shari Lewis, Administrator for the Greene County Health Department, who each delivered speeches expressing gratitude for Tzu Chi’s presence and best wishes for disaster survivors’ swift recovery.
“I’m very thankful that your organization stepped up to help the people of Greene County,” said Councilwoman Bedwell. “You have no connection to us really, except that we’re all human beings, and we all look out for each other.”
A lot of people that were devastated have nothing. And we're just very blessed that you stepped up to help us.
Love in Motion
Before the disaster relief distribution began, tornado survivors were shown an introductory video presentation explaining the work and spirit of Tzu Chi, as this would be the first time that many locals learned of the foundation. The volunteers then presented a sign language piece, “One Family,” that drew forth a sense of hope and unity, lifting the atmosphere at the venue.
As the distribution got underway at 1:00 PM, volunteers meticulously verified information, and patiently explained how to use the cash cards loaded with donations from people across the globe who wished to help. Alongside adults, many children were present at the distribution, too. Volunteers knelt down to speak with them, handing out small gifts that revealed adorable smiles.
A tornado survivor named Steven expressed his deep emotion at the sight of the venue, “It’s a worthy cause,” he said. “You guys help everybody, everybody. And it’s just the right thing to do.” Inspired, he immediately donated $100 to pass the kindness onward.
Some care recipients quietly read the Jing Si Aphorisms provided, while others stroked comforting eco-blankets made from reclaimed plastic bottles, cherishing the gift that implied boundless love. Every interaction was hoped to offer solace to those who had experienced so much, as well as the hope of a brighter tomorrow.
Tzu Chi volunteers delivered not only aid on that day, but also profound human compassion. In turn, that care provides strength for the journey onward, and keeps the cycle of compassion ever-flowing. Residents, local officials, volunteers, and children alike shared in this day of love that blossomed in Linton. As that kindness spreads, warmth endures, and through mutual support, homes and lives can be restored.
