| Shuqin Zhang was a Class One supervisor within the Chinese prison system. She has also been a journalist focusing on prison related issues. Through interviews with inmates and guards, Shuqin realized that many children were left to fend for themselves after their parents were convicted and sentenced. These children have often turned to begging or crime in order to survive. Many children are threatened by hunger, disease, torture and death. As a mother, Shuqin was particularly pained to see these homeless children who were often the victims of discrimination and neglect.
By providing care for their children, Shuqin also hopes that she can help increase the peace of mind for many convicts during their time in prison. Her key aim is that the children should be able to grow healthily rather than becoming a burden of society. Despite intense pressure, Shuqin established the first children’s village in Shaanxi Province in 1996. The shelter cared for and educated a number of convicts’ children. Shuqin’s dedication, together with the support of local and overseas patrons now mean that some six children’s villages have been established. To date, these villages have assisted and supported some 800 children.
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