Hong Dao Foundation Brings Mother's Day Cheer to Isolated Elders in Pingtung

In the southern Taiwanese county of Pingtung, the Hong Dao Social Welfare Foundation's Pingtung Service Center has brought a heartwarming Mother's Day surprise to elderly women living alone, many of whom face significant challenges. Volunteers from the foundation's various branches delivered cakes and celebrated the occasion, offering a moment of joy and recognition to those who often feel forgotten.

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Grandma, Happy Mother's Day!

One particularly touching story is that of Grandma Luo, a 73-year-old woman from Cambodia who has lived in Taiwan for nearly 30 years. After her husband's passing, she lived alone in an old apartment in Chaozhou Township, Pingtung. Her past experiences with conflict and deception had made her wary of outsiders, with her radio serving as her primary connection to the world. However, the foundation's volunteers began visiting her last year, gradually earning her trust. This Mother's Day, when volunteers and their granddaughters presented her with carnations and handmade cards, Grandma Luo expressed her deep emotion, stating it was her first Mother's Day celebration since coming to Taiwan.

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I've been in Taiwan for so long, and this is my first Mother's Day celebration!

Another beneficiary, Grandma Liu, 74, also residing in Chaozhou, has been receiving home care services from the foundation since a stroke left her bedridden three years ago. Her son's demanding work schedule prevented him from providing full-time care. The foundation's caregivers have been instrumental in her recovery, assisting with daily needs and supporting her physical rehabilitation. After more than a year of dedicated care and her own efforts, Grandma Liu has regained mobility and can now move around her home with a wheelchair. The delivery of a Mother's Day cake brought her immense joy, and she shared her gratitude for the foundation's companionship.

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Thank you for your companionship!

Chen Zhi-wei, director of the Hong Dao Pingtung Service Center, emphasized that many elderly individuals in Pingtung, like Grandma Luo and Grandma Liu, live alone due to illness, disability, or family circumstances and require external assistance. The foundation's "Ping An Living" service plan aims to provide crucial support, enabling vulnerable and disabled seniors in southern Taiwan to live out their later years with dignity and security in their own communities. This initiative highlights Taiwan's commitment to caring for its aging population, offering a local perspective on elder care that prioritizes community and personal connection.

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In Pingtung, many corners still have elders like Grandma Liu and Grandma Luo who live alone due to illness, disability, or family changes and need outside help. We welcome all sectors of society to support the 'Ping An Living' service plan for vulnerable elders, allowing vulnerable and disabled elders in the southern part of the country to live safely and age in place.