Two days before Christmas, initiates from London and Surrey Centers in UK joined forces to deliver warmth and joy to the attendees of Ace of Clubs, the only day shelter for the homeless in London that provides hot meals 365 days a year.

Wearing yellow vests and Santa hats, the initiates arrived in advance to prepare for the event, bringing with them food, drinks and decorations as well as warm clothing, blankets, sleeping bags and gift packages.

At 12 noon, a stream of cold and hungry party guests flowed in heading straight for the food counter. They enjoyed a hot lunch which consisted of a three course meal. While the guests enjoyed their food, some of us mingled with them to brighten their day. Many were so appreciative and touched to find people who they could talk to without judging them. The room was filled with a joyful Christmas spirit. Some were surprised at the vegetarian only menu, but as soon as they tasted the delicious food they were coming back for more.

After the meal, some guests adjourned to the sitting room to watch SMTV pre-recorded on video. We showed a short comedy video to cheer them up as well. Sample booklets and flyers introducing the QuanYin Method were displayed. A few guests expressed interest in the spiritual side of our group and asked questions. Two sister initiates brought their music and dance band to entertain them and the guests soon formed a circle and joined in the dancing and singing.

One of our brothers dressed up as Santa, and with his little helper went round the room with presents for each guest. The gifts consisted of socks, a warm hat, gloves, toothbrush, toothpaste, face towel, a drink, cereal bar and chocolate. To add a bit of fun to the occasion, the team organized a free raffle where holders of the winning tickets had a choice of a blanket, a sleeping bag or warm clothing. One homeless man repeatedly jumped and shouted with happiness when he received a Christmas gift from Santa and was doubly excited when he picked a winning ticket for his friend. Consolation prizes of chocolates were given also, so no one went away empty handed. Tea and scones were served before the party ended.

One lady guest was so impressed with the Alternative Living bag that we were using, we gave it to her. She was so grateful saying she would show it to her friends and relatives to support her compassion for animals by not eating them.

At the end of the party, the management team of Ace of Clubs expressed their appreciation to our group, saying that our visit was a real blessing because their annual benefactor was absent this year. Fellow initiates went home feeling elated and grateful to God for this wonderful arrangement of bringing Hiers love to those in need.

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