Social aid to the needy far from what is needed

THE DEATH of a 13-year-old boy with learning difficulties in Xinyang, Henan province, is being investigated by the local civil affairs department, after he was found bruised, battered and malnourished at a local hospital on April 18. He was found by police in October having got lost on his way home and was transferred to a local orphanage as he was unable to provide his name, age or address. Comments:

The best way to help waifs in the country would be to establish a nationwide system of specialized relief agencies, which should be a public service in every Chinese city at prefecture level or above. Of course, both timely disclosure of information about those being cared for and professional childcare are also important.

Han Han, a guest commentator with Beijing News, May 3