West Los Angeles Buddhist Temple (WLABT) was recently awarded a generous grant from BCA’s Social Welfare Committee and Keiro’s Grants Program, which will be used to launch the temple’s new program “Dining With the Dharma.”
Since the outbreak of the pandemic, the need to reduce social isolation, especially among our older members, is a challenge. Many of our members do not have access to a computer or laptop and therefore, have the inability to listen to our Sunday Dharma services or join our seminars via Zoom. To help keep them connected, we developed “Dining with the Dharma.”
A digital photo frame will be loaned to our members with a thumb drive loaded with several recorded services. The unit is extremely easy to use and computer experience is not necessary. When the unit is delivered, the recipient will be given hands-on instructions, as well as written instructions in both English and Japanese.
After they have finished viewing the services, only the thumb drive will be exchanged for a new one with additional recorded services. In essence, they will be able to “attend” weekly services without the need of a computer or a laptop. In addition to the photo frame, we will also be providing a delicious bento lunch on a weekly basis.
The program was launched on Feb. 24 and units were delivered to several temple members so far — Mrs. Noriko Matsumoto, Mrs. Terumi Iwamoto, Mrs. Matsumi Baba, Mrs. Reiko Totani and Mrs. Ritsuko Uto.
We look forward to visiting our members on a weekly basis and even though the visits may be short, it will allow us an opportunity to say “hi” and see how they are doing.