Xu Zhaoming, an elderly man residing in Changshan village of Wucheng district in Jinhua city never thought that one day he would see light again in his right eye.
Recently, while visiting individuals receiving financial aid, staff members from the social work station in Changshan village discovered that Xu had been suffering from cataracts in his right eye for over 10 years. However, due to his poor financial situation, he was unable to afford the necessary surgery.
Upon learning about his condition, the social workers took the initiative to contact the local hospital to arrange for a free assessment and surgical treatment for Xu. After the surgery and follow-up check-ups, his vision in the right eye improved.
Xu benefited from the city's efforts to establish a comprehensive, multi-tiered, classified and precise social assistance system.
In the first half of this year, the city distributed a total of 260 million yuan ($35.8 million) in various forms of social assistance funds, a 14 percent increase compared to last year.
To expand coverage and improve basic social security, the city has established a dynamic adjustment mechanism linking social assistance standards with per capita consumption expenditures.
Focusing on the needs of those facing difficulties, the city has developed a comprehensive assistance model that covers the entire process. This year, it has identified seven areas of need, namely daily life, mental and cultural well-being, education services, medical health, home improvement, safety, and empowerment.
