On the 11th of Nov., Yanchao Branch of the Home for the Disabled—operated by Eden Social Welfare Foundation under the Social Affairs Bureau of Kaohsiung City Government—celebrated its fifth anniversary by hosting the “2025 International Day of Persons with Disabilities Series Event: Together with Eden for the Barrier-Free”. This initiative aligns with the Ministry of Health and Welfare's theme of “Understanding Invisible Disabilities, Eliminating Misunderstanding and Discrimination.” The event featured specially designed accessibility experiences, an inclusive stage, and a sharing market for quality goods. It invited the public to step into the world of persons with disabilities, putting into practice the concept of a friendly society where “we walk together for the common good”.
Yanchao Branch of the Home for the Disabled hosts 2025 International Day of Persons with Disabilities in Kaohsiung, Calling for Elimination of Discrimination and Support for Persons with Disabilities
To promote interaction and understanding between the public and persons with disabilities, the event featured an accessibility experience zone. It simulated daily challenges faced by wheelchair users, the visually impaired, and the hearing impaired, allowing participants to personally experience the various inconveniences encountered by persons with disabilities and foster understanding through empathy. Multiple information and service booths were also set up, including: assistive device consultations, long-term care service inquiries, and information on specialized disability clinics at medical institutions. These integrated local community resources to share welfare information and services.
On stage, many groups of persons with disabilities delivered lively and vibrant performances.
On the inclusive stage, Eden's “Joy Choir,” the “Power Station Band” formed by service users from the Five Loaves and Two Fish Sheltered Community Workshop, the “Box Drum Team” from Yanchao Branch of the Home for the Disabled, and seniors from the local Feng-Shiong and Jin-Shan communities shared the stage. Their outstanding performances showcased the capabilities of persons with disabilities and embodied the spirit of inclusion. Additionally, the “Goods Market” sold handmade products created by persons with disabilities, enabling the public to support their self-realization through purchases. Meanwhile, the “Secondhand Exchange Market” and “Sharing Clothes Closet” activities encouraged resource reuse, reduced environmental impact, and practiced sustainable consumption and production principles.
Ms. Gloria Chang, Vice CEO of Eden Foundation, emphasized that some barriers lie not in wheelchairs or canes, but within the mind, emotions, and senses. Creating accessible environments and fostering social inclusion are crucial to improving the quality of life for persons with disabilities. She expressed hope that this International Day of Persons with Disabilities event would enhance understanding among government, society, and all sectors about the needs of persons with disabilities. It aims to eliminate barriers in all forms and foster a more inclusive social environment for them.
Participants with disabilities engage in market activities, inviting public support
Gloria Chang shared that November 11 holds special significance for Yanchao Branch of the Home for the Disabled. The “1” in the date symbolizes that every life is a “unique 1,” while the other ‘1’ represents the role of companions, embodying the spirit of “walking together for common good”. It also serves as a reminder for Yanchao Branch of the Home for the Disabled to stay true to its founding mission and go the extra mile for those in need.
Eden's Yanchao Branch of the Home for the Disabled currently serves 131 persons with disabilities, offering full-day services, an emotional support zone, a small-scale sheltered community workshop, and daycare services. Special gratitude goes to the Yanchao Branch of the Home for the Disabled, Social Affairs Bureau of Kaohsiung City Government, donors from all sectors, and volunteer partners. Their support in funding, policy initiative, expertise and manpower enable our services can stable delivery and enhances care quality for service users. Eden hope to continue deepening our roots locally, becoming the most steadfast support for families facing disabilities.
Eden's Yanchao Branch of the Home for the Disabled celebrates the 5th Anniversary and hosting International Day of Persons with Disabilities Event
