ABSTRACT
In 1968, Tzu Chi's mission began to expand outside of Hualien with its first charity case in Taitung. This chapter recounts the story of Wu Fa-Ruo, an elderly man living in dire conditions in a makeshift straw hut within a cemetery. Suffering from severe eye disease and unable to sustain himself, Wu's plight was brought to light through a newspaper article. Concerned, Master Cheng Yen traveled from Hualien to Taitung to offer assistance. She provided Wu with financial support and arranged for medical treatment, marking the beginning of Tzu Chi's long-term care initiatives. Despite the challenges of distance and limited resources, Tzu Chi was committed to helping Wu Fa-Ruo. This chapter highlights the early development of Tzu Chi's systematic approach to charity, emphasizing personal visits, thorough assessments, and ongoing support, which would become foundational to its expanding humanitarian efforts.
