“Wishing all seniors health and longevity!” Recently, a lively birthday celebration for seniors took place at the Elderly Dining Hall (Wanlong Charity Canteen) in Xinqiao Community, Linjiang Street, Licheng District. Ten elderly birthday celebrants gathered to share cake, exchange stories, and enjoy moments filled with joy and laughter.

　　Since August 2024, the community, in collaboration with Licheng District’s Civil Affairs Bureau and local benefactors, has funded the community’s Elderly Dining Hall, providing free lunches and dinners for 125 seniors in the area. Additionally, since 2005, the community has operated a charity clinic funded by donors, offering free healthcare services and assisting seniors with home modifications. Today, most elderly residents in Xinqiao Community enjoy free meals and medical care.

　　Birthday Celebrations and Free Meals

Birthday Celebrations and Free Meals

　　The community organizes monthly group birthday celebrations for elderly residents.

　　During the recent celebration, 98-year-old Grandma Zhou, the oldest celebrant, cut the first slice of cake with help from Wu Xin, Secretary of the Community Party Committee and Director of the Residents’ Committee. Applause filled the room, creating a warm and cheerful atmosphere. “It’s my first time celebrating my birthday at the dining hall with everyone. The cake wasn’t too sweet, perfect for seniors,” she shared.

　　Following local Minnan traditions, each celebrant received symbolic gifts of eggs and noodles, earning praise from attendees. Regular diners like Grandma Yang expressed deep gratitude. “I never expected the dining hall to provide free meals and even celebrate our birthdays,” she said, emphasizing the meaningfulness of such gatherings.

　　Wu Xin explained, “At the end of every month, we hold a group birthday party for seniors, sending warm wishes to all celebrants.” Since August, the community’s “Neighbourhood Kitchen” initiative, supported by the Civil Affairs Bureau and philanthropist Guo Zhenyi, has provided free lunches and dinners for 125 seniors aged 73 and above, along with vulnerable residents. Services include meal delivery and birthday celebrations to show continuous community care.

　　Free Medical Care and Home Modifications

Elderly Care Initiative Free Meals and Healthcare for Seniors! 

　　Seniors aged 60 and above in Linjiang Street can receive free consultations and medication at Wanlong Charity Clinic using their medical cards.

　　Located at 16 Wanshou Road, the clinic welcomes elderly residents daily for consultations and prescriptions. Established through donations from Guo Zhenyi, it operates in partnership with the Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University. Medical specialists from the hospital conduct regular consultations, ensuring seniors access quality healthcare close to home.

　　“For me, the dining hall is 120 meters away, and the clinic is just 80 meters,” shared resident Grandpa Su. His wife’s stroke left her mobility impaired, and he manages all household chores despite his physical disability and high blood pressure. “Thankfully, we have free meals and medical care nearby, making daily life much easier.”

　　To further support seniors with mobility challenges like Grandpa Su, the community has coordinated with the Civil Affairs Bureau to carry out home modifications, assisting 13 elderly households with features like handrails, shower aids, cleaning services, and emergency response systems.

　　Additionally, the community partnered with Quanzhou’s True Love Online Charity Association to establish a “Senior Assistance Service Station,” conducting regular home visits and providing essential support, benefiting 1,320 elderly residents.

　　A Comprehensive Elderly Care System

　　Xinqiao Community is home to 492 seniors aged 60 and above, making up a significant portion of its population. Recognizing this reality, the community has focused on enhancing its ‘Medical-Food-Housing’ elderly care services by establishing free healthcare platforms, launching the community Elderly Dining Hall, and improving home-based care services.

　　Looking ahead, Wu Xin emphasized ongoing efforts to integrate more service resources and expand support networks. The community will continue partnering with nearby organizations, volunteers, and social groups to offer high-quality elderly care, ensuring seniors’ lives are more fulfilling, secure, and dignified.

　　Source: Licheng District Government Office, Linjiang Street, Licheng Tweets