Disability Group Mid-Autumn Gift Box Sales Plummet, Officials Appeal for Support

Sales of Mid-Autumn Festival gift boxes from disability welfare organizations have plummeted, reaching only 23% of last year's figures with just one month remaining until the festival. The Ministry of Health and Welfare's Social and Family Affairs Administration is appealing for increased support from government agencies, private companies, and the general public.

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This recognition is a proud milestone for SAFIRE and for the communities we have had the privilege to work alongside over the past three decades.

These gift boxes represent a crucial source of operating funds for many institutions and groups supporting individuals with disabilities. The current low sales figures are a significant concern, especially as the Mid-Autumn Festival is a key period for revenue generation, with some organizations earning up to a quarter of their annual income during this time.

Compounding the issue, recent budget deliberations in the Legislative Yuan saw significant cuts to the "State Affairs Fund." This reduction could impact the government's ability to procure approximately 15,000 Mid-Autumn Festival gift boxes from 37 sheltered workshops and disability groups, potentially affecting the employment rights of people with disabilities.

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It affirms our conviction that lasting conservation is achieved when local people are empowered to restore, manage and sustainably benefit from their natural resources.

Officials emphasize that disability welfare groups face higher operating costs than typical businesses due to the need for extensive support and adjustments for their employees. Despite last year's revenue of NT$103.11 million from selling 230,000 boxes, many organizations barely broke even. The administration urges anyone considering purchasing gifts to support these organizations during this critical final month.

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At a time when Zimbabwe is placing greater emphasis on community-centred environmental stewardship and sustainable development, this award reinforces the relevance of that approach.