TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-mai (陳其邁) on Thursday visited elderly residents living alone in Daliao District ahead of the Lunar New Year to check on their health and deliver holiday gifts.
The city’s Social Affairs Bureau said Chen visited two pensioners at their homes, where he asked about their daily routines and physical condition. He also reminded them to stay warm during the cold weather.
One resident, a 75-year-old woman surnamed Huang (黃), warmly welcomed the mayor and shared stories about her neighborhood. Another resident, an 86-year-old woman surnamed Bao (鮑), spoke optimistically and said she continues to care about her neighbors despite her age.
CNA reported that the bureau has distributed 3,600 Lunar New Year gift boxes to registered elderly people living alone across Kaohsiung. The program is supported by nonprofit groups, businesses, and community care teams.
The bureau said social workers regularly assess the needs of elderly residents living alone and coordinate services through 240 partner units citywide. These services include check-in phone calls, home visits, and supply assistance, per Liberty Times.
Separately, the bureau said it plans to expand cooperation with district offices to conduct a comprehensive survey of elderly residents living alone, per UDN. The goal is to identify seniors who may need assistance and encourage greater participation in community activities.
