Special canteens set up in Linyi city to cater to the elderly

Lanling county in Linyi city, East China's Shandong province, has spent over 4 million yuan ($549,896) in building 24 heartwarming canteens to help local elderly people enjoy some healthy meals.

The money has been sourced from village self-financing initiatives, social investment, and caring donations, among other channels.

In the county's Dongnanwei village, the elderly need to pay just 4 yuan per person a day for meals, with the excess to be subsidized by the village collective, said a member of staff at the village canteen.

For people with special needs, such as those who are severely disabled, critically ill patients, as well as those over the age of 80, full subsidies and free meals will be provided.

To expand its service functions, Lanling county has also established a day-care center that integrates dining services with leisure and entertainment functions, in a bid to help the elderly lead more fulfilling lives. (Edited by Chen Chuxuan)