Volunteers reopen free canteen for seniors
Charitable effort in small, rural Jiangxi village makes life a lot easier for the elderly locals
The canteen receives its primary funding from subsidies provided by local governments and the fundraising endeavors of empathetic individuals.
To improve the management of the canteen, a five-person team was formed. The canteen's expenses are settled weekly to ensure transparency, with estimated annual costs exceeding 100,000 yuan.
The canteen provides free breakfast and lunch, attracting an increasing number of senior diners.
"Almost all the seniors in the village come here to eat. There are more than 50 people here every day," Chen said.
The canteen is closed on Sundays and holidays to allow families to spend time together.
With the exception of elderly individuals who have health issues, all residents age 65 and above take turns daily to assist with meal preparation and cleaning. The chefs and assistants are all local residents.
Assistant cook You Qingchun said, "We take turns to work to ensure everyone gets a hot meal."
Another duty roster member, Chen Hezhi, said: "The senior people gather here happily. If someone misses a meal, we immediately contact and confirm with their family."
