The horrific Taroko express train crash on April 2, left many individuals and families grieving, even the numerous heroic volunteers who responded to the crisis have found it difficult to heal the pain.
At the time of the disaster, it was essential to allow some time for rescue teams to do their duty, after which TSMC Charity Foundation Chairperson Sophie Chang visited the area five days after the disaster. Aside from visiting the funerals of the deceased and comforting family members, she also went to understand what the Hualien County government and its first responders had to say, in order to provide practical support.
“I come here today to help speak for those who are unable to express their pain, and for those too injured to walk. How may we assist in washing away this incredible suffering?” Sophie stated, “This nightmare may linger on, and you are all still grappling with rescue efforts. We still don't know exactly what the real cost of this catastrophe will be, and how can we help resolve them, is the main purpose of my visit.” Regarding the efforts made by the government agencies and firefighters, she expressed that although her team is not a state entity and therefore cannot make absolute assurances, she promised that her foundation will come to undertake the following three actions:
1. Those needing mental or emotional care may contact us. “You might think it's not necessary, but this awful experience may always rear its head in some form or another. If you seek us for help, it will be an entirely private affair. No one has to know.” <If you require assistance, please fill out the following form: https://forms.gle/VY2QUwsx54zJGaFDA >
2. We are calling on counseling psychologists from all corners of Taiwan to lend their services if possible. After creating a list of those seeking help, we will allocate them to individual professionals at established locations. Let's help those in need. <Thank you so much for your kindness, the necessary quota has already been reached.>
3. I promise to acquire a new set of uniforms for your firefighters, whose current ones are stained with blood and tattered skin, and continue to be worn after washing. Whether it be Hualien's firefighters, volunteer exchanges, or first responders from outside the county, we will provide them with newly made uniforms, including clothing, equipment, shoes, etc. If you ask for one, we will gladly send you two, and help this tragedy fade away.
Additionally, the TSMC Charity Foundation supports and provides for disadvantaged households. Therefore, Chairperson Sophie Chang has also expressed her “hope that the county government can help us find those households who, after losing their loved ones, can barely scrape by now. We can help, we want to help.”
*At this moment, the TSMC Charity Foundation is not accepting donations for the Taroko express train disaster or general donation. Thank you to all who have shown their support, any new funding projects will be announced in the future.
If you are suffering from any noticeable physical or mental discomfort, you can contact any of the specialized hotlines listed below for personal support and guidance.
Ministry of Health and Welfare 24-hour mental health counseling hotline: 1925
Taiwan Lifeline Association: 1995
“Teacher Chang” Hotline: 1980