On May 17, 2005, heavy downpours throughout the night triggered the most serious flooding in two decades in Lages, southern Brazil. The water level of the Carah?River rose eight meters, and low-lying areas along its banks were inundated. As the floods occurred at dawn, most residents had insufficient time to move their belongings to a safe place, and those caught in bed were trapped inside their homes and had to be rescued by firemen. Local authorities estimated that approximately a thousand families were in need of urgent assistance, with most being from the low income bracket.

Touched by a spirit of empathy, fellow practitioners from the Sao Paulo Center launched a fund-raising activity in an effort to help their suffering compatriots through this difficult time. Then through Master's love and blessings, and with the assistance of several Brazilian friends, from May 19 to 22 the initiates distributed 147 15-kg packages of food to the neediest families and victims who were still awaiting relief. The packages included coffee, black beans, sugar, salt, soy oil, flour and milk. Families with infants also received disposable diapers and powdered milk during the aid effort.

Once again, Master's love and concern touched the hearts of many, as both material aid and spiritual comfort were provided to the flood victims.