Global Disaster Reduction and Relief

Imagine a Taiwan where even the most remote communities aren't just surviving disasters—they're prepared to face them with confidence and dignity. Where age and isolation don't determine vulnerability. Where Indigenous wisdom combines with modern preparedness strategies to create resilient villages.

This isn't just a vision—it's already unfolding in Baliyuan Village (Haciliwan in the Amis language), a tiny community of 28 households nestled in Hualien's mountainous Fengbin Township. Here, The Mustard Seed Mission is pioneering an approach that transforms how Taiwan's aging, remote communities prepare for increasingly frequent disasters.

From Distance to Connection

When The Mustard Seed Mission (MSM) first began working in Baliyuan, we were met with understandable caution. Many of the elders had never had consistent outside support. But through repeated visits, listening with care, and hands-on assistance, trust started to grow.

We believe disaster education isn’t confined to a whiteboard. To adapt to the unique needs of Baliyuan, the lessons were designed to integrate with the elders’ minds, using everyday examples, group Q&A games, and practice drills to help turn abstract safety concepts into lived understanding. These sessions emphasize preparedness in daily life, bridging the gap between knowing what to do and feeling confident doing it.

This effort was acknowledged during the 70th anniversary of Baliyuan’s local church, where Pastor Zhu-Ho Panung publicly thanked MSM for not only delivering resources but for empowering the community with knowledge. It was a gracious moment of community strength.

Staying Through the Storm

Last year, Typhoon Kong-rey and the April 3^rd Hualien Earthquake caused damage to homes in Baliyuan, and many elders were left to manage on their own. MSM responded by inviting indigenous adults to return to the village, checking building safety, and providing essential repairs. And by showing up again and again to offer emotional reassurance. These follow-up visits weren’t just to fulfill clerical procedures; they were MSM’s commitment to provide continuity in uncertain times.

In a double aging community, restoring a home isn’t just about the structural integrity; it’s about restoring the resident’s sense of security, autonomy, and dignity.

Help Us Reach More Villages Like Baliyuan

Taiwan’s most remote communities are often its most vulnerable. For places like Baliyuan, disaster preparedness isn’t optional; it’s essential. And with aging people living in aging homes, the stakes are only growing.

The Mustard Seed Mission is committed to reaching these quiet corners before the next storm hits through education, home safety, and continued care.

Support our disaster preparedness work. Help us protect and empower more villages like Baliyuan.

No matter the age, no one should be left behind, especially not those living closest to the edge.

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