The medical staff of the Shakyamuni Health Clinic poses for a photo, expressing their gratitude and thanking all of the kind benefactors for their generous support.

The FPMT Social Services Fund is dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of those in need, particularly in India and Mongolia. With a compassionate approach, we strive to support projects that serve vulnerable populations, such as children, the elderly, the sick, and those who are extremely poor. Our grants are aimed to fund initiatives that can make an impact in local communities. This includes providing help for vital resources like health clinics, soup kitchens, and other non-governmental organizations supporting local Tibetan and Mongolian communities. We believe in the power of these projects to bring about positive change and improve the overall well-being.

In 2023, through the Social Services Fund we have offered US$188,858 to support these critical initiatives. Thanks to all who continue to support this fund, together we can continue to make a difference and extend our reach to even more individuals in need.

A young child with cerebral palsy who receives care from Shakyamuni Health Clinic.

The Shakyamuni Health Clinic, located in Bodhgaya, Bihar, India, is a renowned NGO managed by the Root Institute for Wisdom Culture. With a history dating back to 1991, this clinic has been providing healthcare services to the local community of Gaya District. In 2022, after two challenging years of Covid-19 lockdowns, the Clinic successfully treated 31,629 patients with high-quality medicine. Remarkably, 67% of these visits were follow-ups and returns, reflecting the community’s deep trust and reliance on the clinic. In particular, the Clinic conducted 7,934 mobile clinic visits and registered 19,346 in-clinic visits. Despite the obstacles faced during the pandemic, the Clinic is making efforts to resume programs that were temporarily halted. This includes vital services like dental care and health education for adolescent girls. Of special importance is the attention given to children with cerebral palsy.

To support the operational expenses of the Clinic, such as salaries, medical supplies, overhead costs, and maintenance, a total of US$29,400 was allocated in 2023. The Shakyamuni Health Clinic remains committed to serving the local community and improving healthcare access for all. Through continuous efforts and support, they strive to make a positive impact and uplift the lives of those in need and we have been offering substantial support to their vital work since 2012.

Director of the Maitri Charitable Trust Adriana Ferranti receiving blessings and appreciation for her work from His Holiness the Dalai Lama, January 2023.

The Maitri Charitable Trust, located in Bodhgaya, Bihar, India, is a widely recognized charity that has dedicated over 34 years of tireless service to uplift the impoverished people of Gaya District. Their unwavering commitment revolves around two primary areas: the Leprosy and TB programs, which encompass outreach activities in various villages ,and hospital care. The devoted staff of the Maitri project have provided continuous support to these programs for many years.

Mother care clinic offered through Maitri.

In terms of TB patients, their efforts extend beyond identification to ensuring that individuals are referred to government service centers. Each new patient discovered signifies a step towards reducing the spread of the disease, saving lives, and preventing the disintegration of families. Maitri plays a crucial role in constantly monitoring patients and arranging hospitalization when necessary. They believe that providing support to the patients is an integral aspect of their recovery, particularly for those who are poor. For example, the distribution of blankets reduces the worsening of a disease, while access to food and medicinal supplements ensures that inadequate nutrition, and other health issues do not impede their recovery journey.

The Social Services Fund is delighted to offer their support in 2023, contributing US$68,000 to cover a significant portion of Maitri’s annual budget. However, the Maitri project requires additional funds for the maintenance of their campus buildings, such as repairing walls and roofs, and acquiring a new jeep van. We have been committed to offering support to Maitri’s essential work, providing annual grants since 2012 ensuring the continuation of their impactful work in improving the lives of local Gaya community. 

Young beneficiaries of the Lamp of the Path soup kitchen enjoying lunch.

Lamp of the Path, located in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. In 2022, their Soup Kitchen served a nourishing hot bowl of soup with bread and tea to over 40-50 people daily, totaling 13,520 bowls of soup throughout the year. On November 30, 2022, the Mobile Kitchen Project was initiated, starting with a trial phase where hot meals were delivered to 20 poor families in Bayanzurkh District. The aim of the mobile kitchen is to improve people’s health through increased accessibility and provide quality traditional nutritious Mongolian food, including dumplings, pancakes, noodle soup with vegetables, and more. It has two main objectives as well: enhancing the nutritional quality for poor bedridden and disabled individuals in the ger district and expanding community-oriented projects. Meals are delivered throughout five working days. To fulfill their aim procurement of equipment for the project has been successfully completed. In addition to the current employees of Lamp of the Path, a new assistant cook, and a delivery driver have been hired to support the operations.

Lamp of the Path is thrilled that the activities of their community center have improved, providing support to more vulnerable individuals. We were delighted to fully cover their annual needs by offering $39,200.00 in 2023 and this is now the eleventh year that we have been able to offer this kind of support. 

Patient Care Trust free medical camp at Drepung Loseling Monastery, January 2023

Patient Care Trust (PCT) provides marginalized Tibetan refugees with timely access to affordable, high-quality healthcare services. In collaboration with eight reputable government hospitals in India, PCT offers these services almost free of charge. The trust was named and blessed by His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, and it was founded in February 2012 by Mr. Sonam Wangyal. Registered as an NGO in 2014, PCT operates its central office in Majnu Ka Tilla Tibetan colony, New Delhi.

PCT conducts medical camps both online and in Dharamsala, Himachal Pradesh, with the support of highly qualified doctors from PCT’s allied Indian government hospitals. Since 2018, seven such camps have been organized, providing treatment to 4,695 patients. These medical camps allow PCT to reach many patients within a short period, while also gathering valuable data on the health conditions of local Tibetans. If a medical camp is unable to address a particular illness or disease, PCT refers the patient for immediate treatment at one of their allied government hospitals in Delhi, often at little or no cost. During the Covid-19 pandemic, PCT adapted its services by facilitating virtual consultations, necessary follow-ups, and providing education and advice on disease management online.

To support PCT’s initiatives, thanks to a grant from Italian Buddhist Union (UBI), the Social Services Fund, is partially covering their annual budget and providing US$10,000 in 2023. This contribution will enable PCT to continue its vital work and make a positive impact on the lives of Tibetan refugee community. 

The Tibetan Heart Foundation’s free medical camp.

The Tibetan Heart Foundation (THF), based in New Delhi, India, is an NGO dedicated to supporting the local Tibetan community. Its primary objective is to raise awareness about heart-related issues through programs and free medical camps in Tibetan exile communities. THF also plays a crucial role in guiding and assisting patients in accessing the best heart hospitals and raising funds for their treatment. In addition, they provide translation and guidance support to patients who face language difficulties, ensuring they receive the necessary care. Furthermore, THF facilitates eye checkups, resulting in 24 patients undergoing successful eye surgeries in 2022. They also arrange consultations with various specialists, including cardiologists, urologists, ophthalmologists, gastroenterologists, and neurologists. This holistic approach ensures that the Tibetan community receives comprehensive healthcare services.

Lama Zopa Rinpoche specifically asked the Social Services Fund to offer the Tibetan Heart Foundation US$6,151 to support their needs. This contribution will enable THF to continue their valuable work in supporting the Tibetan community’s health and well-being.   

Monks affected by dengue fever in a hospital.

The Sera Mey Social Service Society operates within the premises of Sera Monastic University in Bylakuppe, India. During the summer 2023, their focus was on raising awareness about the increasing number of dengue fever cases in the community. They implemented various measures to prevent the spread of dengue fever. Additionally, they successfully provided the second dose of Covid-19 vaccination for Sera Mey monks. In a collaborative effort, and with thanks to a grant from Italian Buddhist Union (UBI), the Social Services Fund is delighted to announce that we have sponsored a new ambulance vehicle by donating US$36,107.40 in 2023.

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all the compassionate donors who generously supported the crucial projects aimed at assisting local communities in 2023. Your kindness and contributions have made a remarkable impact and are truly appreciated.

All are welcome to offer toward the Social Services Fund, to help ensure support essential health care for those who are truly vulnerable and in need. 

The Social Services Fund, established to support Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s Vast Visions for the FPMT organization, focuses efforts primarily in India, Nepal, Tibet and Mongolia. Funds help children, the elderly, sick, and very poor.