Support Buddhist Monks "Walk For Peace," To Washington DC

NATIONAL PEACE GROUP SPONSORS MONKS' 'WALK FOR PEACE,' ISSUES URGENT CALL FOR FINANCIAL SUPPORT AS PILGRIMAGE continuesTo DC

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NEW YORK —

The Uvalde Foundation for Kids was founded in 2022 following the Robb Elementary School shooting in Uvalde, Texas, to promote resilience, non-violence, and social justice among youth.

The Foundation today announced its ongoing commitment to sponsor the remainder of the 2,300-mile “Walk for Peace” pilgrimage, launching a national fundraising initiative to ensure the mission's continuation and requesting direct financial support as walkers enter Mississippi bound for Washington DC

The "Walk for Peace" is a 2,300-mile (3,700-kilometer) pilgrimage undertaken by a group of Buddhist monks from Fort Worth, Texas, to Washington, D.C., with the mission of promoting unity, mindfulness, and compassion across the United States.

With the "Walk for Peace" pilgrimage approaching a crucial and remote section of its journey, the Foundation is issuing an urgent request for FINANCIAL support:

* The Need: FUNDS are needed to supply & deliver water, food and basic sustenance supplies as the monks journey to DC.

Crucially, the Foundation is covering all approved expenses (including supplies and logistical costs) for those who can assist with this critical on-the-ground support.

Donations through our fundraising efforts and Donor Advised Platforms such as BENEVITY are appreciated.

Solidarity with the Walk for Peace
The "Walk for Peace" is a 2,300-mile (3,700-kilometer) pilgrimage undertaken by a group of Buddhist monks from Fort Worth, Texas, to Washington, D.C., with the mission of promoting unity, mindfulness, and compassion across the United States.

The monks’ pursuit of peace, loving kindness, compassion, and unity through a demanding physical journey mirrors the core tenets of the YPJF.

This decision is based on the profound, unwavering commitment of the monks to their cause, which the foundation views as an unparalleled demonstration of the same resilience and non-violence the YPJF seeks to foster.

The national nonprofits demonstration of commitment came into sharp relief following the Nov. 19 incident near Dayton, Texas, in which a vehicle struck the group’s escort car, pushing it into the walking monks. The most severely injured, Bhante Dam Phommasan, recently underwent surgery to amputate his leg but has shown profound acceptance and determination for the pilgrimage to continue.

Foundation Reaches Out, Launches Initiative
The Foundation has reached out to the Walk for Peace group through available channels to confirm their offer of support

Donations can also be made directly through the foundation’s dedicated channel:
https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=G88KEWBWBVGA8

Donations will be directly vetted, receipted, and distributed to the journey costs.

Statement from Foundation Founder Daniel Chapin
Daniel Chapin, Founder of the Foundation, and himself a veteran of extensive pilgrimages including a Walk Across America in 2010 and a Walk Across Oahu, spoke to the profound connection he felt to the monks' mission.

"The courage and perseverance displayed by Bhante Dam Phommasan and the entire 'Walk for Peace' Sangha is a powerful living sermon on peace and justice," said Chapin.
"The tragic reality is that every community across this nation has suffered the pain of gun violence. Because of this shared experience, every community can relate to this journey of resilience and peace in their own way. To continue walking after such a devastating event is a singular demonstration of brave, spiritual endurance."

Chapin concluded, "We cannot allow this physical hardship to halt this vital message. The foundation is proud to financially ensure the remaining miles of this pilgrimage are completed. We see their walk as an ultimate demonstration of justice—acceptance of hardship and the relentless pursuit of peace for all."

Uvalde Foundation For Kids
Volunteer and Media Hotline: 254-499-8027
Website: www.youthpeaceandjusticefoundation.com
Alternative Website: www.theuvaldefoundation.com
Charity ID 88-3268749