PHILIPSBURG:--- In response to the devastating impact of Typhoon Ragasa between September 22 and 23, 2025, Tzu Chi Foundation St. Maarten organized a month-long fundraising campaign to support affected families in Taiwan, China, the Philippines, Hong Kong, and neighbouring regions. The campaign ran from September 25 to October 31, 2025.
Upon learning of the disaster, Commissioner Sister Sandra immediately convened volunteers to plan an emergency response. Despite limited resources, the team launched island-wide fundraising efforts, visiting public areas, walking through communities, and standing in front of shops to share information about the disaster and encourage donations.
The campaign saw countless moving moments. Residents with very little still gave what they could, shop owners donated despite slow business, and children participated by holding bamboo banks to inspire others. Many donors recalled Tzu Chi’s support after Hurricane Irma in 2017 and wanted to “give back” to help disaster survivors abroad.
Through these coordinated efforts, Tzu Chi St. Maarten successfully raised US $10,184.28. All funds were remitted in full to Tzu Chi Taiwan on November 17, 2025, ensuring aid reaches those most in need as quickly as possible.
“We are deeply moved by the love shown by the people of St. Maarten,” said Commissioner Sandra Cheung. “Although we live far away, compassion has no boundaries. Every donation, whether large or small, is a blessing that carries warmth across the ocean.”
Volunteers also expressed appreciation for the opportunity to join the global Tzu Chi community in providing timely support to Typhoon Ragasa victims.
The Buddhist Compassion Relief Tzu Chi Foundation has been serving St. Maarten since 2005, providing disaster relief, humanitarian aid, food assistance, education support, and community care. Guided by Master Cheng Yen’s teachings of compassion, gratitude, and action, Tzu Chi strives to bring relief to those suffering and hope to those in hardship.