Sunshine volunteer station brings warmth, care to elders

In Xiajin county, the Women's Volunteer Sunshine Station is making waves thanks to its dedicated service to the elderly community.

Spearheaded by committed volunteers, the station has been a beacon of hope and support for many, including Li Quankui, an elderly resident. Li finds solace in these volunteers, as they help ease his burden by doing chores such as washing heavy winter clothing.

This initiative, particularly the shared laundry service, is designed to alleviate the struggles faced by the elderly, especially those who live alone, during the colder months.

Volunteers at the Women's Volunteer Sunshine Station organize freshly washed clothes. [Photo by Fan Huazhen for chinadaily.com.cn]

The volunteers wash each item of clothing meticulously, before drying and returning them to their rightful owners.

Since its inception last winter, the service has successfully cleaned over 2,000 pieces of clothing, touching the lives of nearly a thousand senior residents. The station's offerings go beyond laundry; they also offer services such as mending torn clothes, household cleaning, shopping assistance, and even complimentary haircuts. These efforts have made the station a cornerstone of comprehensive elder care in Xiajin.

Volunteers at the Women's Volunteer Sunshine Station sort through washed sheets and bedding. [Photo by Fan Huazhen for chinadaily.com.cn]

Behind these efforts is the Xiajin County Women's Federation, which has been instrumental in organizing a diverse group of over 1,700 volunteers across 160 teams.

These volunteers, ranging from Women's Federation officials to female college students, embody the spirit of community service. They also drive forward initiatives that not only support the elderly, but also create a close-knit community.

As the Sunshine Volunteer Station continues to expand its services, it remains a shining example of how collective action can create a nurturing environment for the most vulnerable of our society. (Edited by Cai Liting)