(Editorial - Graphic Illustration - MetroCreativeConnection)

Though it took about five-and-a-half weeks for support to arrive in the form of a disaster declaration from the federal government, Ohio County residents who were affected by the devastating flash flooding of June 14 had already received support from all over the world.

That includes the contingent that arrived from the Buddhist organization Tzu Chi USA, which partnered with the American Red Cross to give whatever assistance they could.

That meant everything from VISA gift cards funded by the organization’s donors to a shoulder to lean on — an ear to listen. And for an extra measure of comfort, bamboo blankets.

“We came here to provide an opportunity for us to give the love from people around the globe, because all of the money we raise is from a global donation. We try to bring the love here, but at the same time, the most important part is to get the local people together and regroup and regrow,” said volunteer Bornain Chiu.

The Red Cross and Tzu Chi have a non-governmental organization agreement. Once a disaster of significant scale has taken place and the Red Cross has responded, Tzu Chi can then be called to provide further assistance, according to Sharon Kesselring, executive director of the American Red Cross of the Ohio River Valley.

Volunteers ranging from college-aged to 70 years old paid for their own travel to be there for those affected by the disaster.

“There are houses that were totally destroyed or have major damage, so we are here bringing donations from our donors and volunteers from all over the world to support the financial need of the family,” said volunteer Teh-hong Lee.

The group’s visit is an important reminder that humanity’s desire to help those in need is not limited by borders. We do not need to have everything in common to understand our responsibility to take care of one another.

Tzu Chi is one of many organizations that stepped in as the weeks stretched by after nine people were killed and extensive damage was inflicted on some Ohio County communities. Residents are grateful for every one of them. But to Tzu Chi we can be grateful too for the reminder: The world hears you. You are not alone.