Everything here — the classes, the cushions, the electricity, the meals during events — is carried by people who give quietly and without being asked. There is no suggested amount and no tier. Give what is right for you, or give nothing and simply come and visit.

In the Theravāda tradition dāna — giving comes first. It is the practice of letting go of attachments, and the starting point on one's spiritual path. Dāna is considered one of the most powerful and accessible ways to generate positive karma.

Ways people give

• Give towards the daily running of the centre

  Electricity, water, cushions, books. Unglamorous but constant.

• Give towards maintenance and upkeep works

  A four-storey building needs much funds for maintenance. Leakages, toilet issues, aircond compressors, cleaning, etc.

• Offer requisites to visiting monks

  When monks stay with us, the traditional offering is food and basic requisites rather than money. We will tell you what is needed.

• Give your time

  Setting up for events, keeping the halls clean, helping with the children’s class, driving a monk to our centre for a talk. This is dāna too, and it is often what we are shortest of.