Community Kitchen
In Nanchang, near a cancer hospital, two elderly residents, Wan Zuocheng and Hong Gengxiang, operate a “community cancer kitchen” to assist caregivers of cancer patients.
For two decades, they have provided this service, which has recently gained national attention. Mr. Wan is very particular about the importance of good food, stating, “No matter what life throws at you, you must eat good food.” For just 3 RMB (around $0.32), anyone can use the kitchen facilities to prepare meals, whether for patients seeking familiar food or for their caregivers. The couple originally ran a restaurant next to the Jiangxi Cancer Hospital, but after it was demolished in 1993, they set up a breakfast stall. In 2003, they decided to start their charity kitchen after a family came to them with a child who refused treatment but wanted a meal cooked by his mother. They allowed the family to use their kitchen, marking the beginning of their charitable efforts.
Over time, they expanded their kitchen with additional utensils, appliances, and cooking facilities. As costs for utilities increased, community support also grew, allowing them to continue their work. Donations now exceed expenses, and nearly 10,000 people have used the cancer kitchen. Food holds significant cultural importance in China, often serving as a greeting. Research shows that positive experiences, such as receiving home-cooked meals, can enhance cancer treatment outcomes. In 2019, the local government renovated the kitchen, moving it indoors and adding over 20 cooking stations and ventilators. In 2020, they were recognized as one of the “People Who Move China,” a television honor akin to CNN Heroes.