We are happy to share an update from Lopen-la—and to let you know what your generosity has already helped make possible.
Sifu Jensen and I are part of the Maitreya Sangha, led by Lama Glenn Mullin, whose initiative this relief effort grew from. The first wave of funds has now been distributed in Nepal, including the $1,800 raised by our 10,000 Victories community.
With the combined funds, Lopen-la and those helping him were able to provide direct financial support to 108 families affected by the floods. More than 70% of the funds were distributed directly to families from Lopen-la’s hometown. The remaining funds went to his brother — who lives in the region hit hard by the floods and lost his wife, and home, like so many others there.
Lopen-la had originally planned to purchase food and essential supplies. But by the time he was ready to distribute the assistance, other donors had already provided many of those necessities. Rather than duplicate what was already available, he decided the most useful help would be direct cash assistance of approximately $100 per family, allowing each family to decide what they need most—whether food, medicine, transportation, replacing belongings, or simply getting through the difficult weeks ahead.
And there is more good news.
Since that first distribution, our 10,000 Victories community has contributed another $1,300 — bringing our total to:
$3,100 for Nepal Flood Relief
That is $3,100 given by our students and friends, to help people on the other side of the world whom most of us will never meet.
We are deeply touched by your response.
Lopen-la sent this message of gratitude:
“I would like to express my deepest gratitude to each and every donor who contributed to this relief effort, and especially to Lama Glenn Mullin for his compassionate initiative.”
He also dedicated the merit of everyone involved to the well-being and happiness of all sentient beings — and ultimately, to their liberation and enlightenment.
Thank You, 10,000 Victories Family
To every person who contributed—thank you for your kindness. Whether your donation was large or small, it became part of something much bigger when our community came together.
$3,100 raised. And most importantly, real help is reaching real people as they begin putting their lives back together.
We are grateful to all of you for answering the call when Lopen-la, his family, and his community needed support.