Groups working to give the mentally and physically challenged opportunities to lead full lives and contribute to the economy warrant widespread support from all segments of society in Taiwan, Vice President Lai Ching-te said Nov. 26.
Nongovernmental organizations like Eden Social Welfare Foundation are playing a key role in enabling these groups to fulfil their missions, Lai said. The people should follow suit and back such good work to the hilt, he added.
Lai made the remarks while touring a sheltered workshop established by the foundation in eastern Taiwan’s Taitung County. During the visit, he joined in coffee- and cookie-making activities—the main skills taught at the facility.
According to Lai, the workshop is an outstanding example of what can be achieved on the back of well-designed and effectively implemented training and employment programs. This success is represented by the quality of the products, as well as the heightened confidence and self-esteem of participants, he said.
Lai was accompanied on the trip by Hung Tsung-kai, CEO of Eastern Taiwan Joint Services Center under the Cabinet, ESWF President Cheng Liang, and lawmaker Liu Chao-hao.
Taipei City-headquartered ESWF, launched in 1982, aims to assist the disabled and members of other socially marginalized groups via support services like rehabilitation and vocational training. It operates over 120 centers in Taiwan, and has branches in Thailand, Vietnam and China. (YCH-E)
Write to Taiwan Today at ttonline@mofa.gov.tw