To express gratitude for the long‑term support from institutions and organizations serving people with disabilities, the Chiayi County Social Affairs Department organized the “2026 Taiwan Lantern Festival Disability Care Day” this evening (12th), inviting more than 120 participants with disabilities to enjoy the lantern displays together.

Through the coordination of the Social Affairs Department, a total of seven disability‑service institutions and five disability‑advocacy groups participated in the event. Three large tour buses were arranged to provide point‑to‑point transportation within the controlled area. With enthusiastic guidance and assistance from staff members, participants strolled through various themed lantern zones, enjoying warm and lively interactions throughout the evening.

Director Chang Cui‑yao stated that the Social Affairs Department has long been committed to promoting the rights of people with disabilities and improving accessible facilities. Through accessible shuttle services such as small rehabilitation buses, individuals with mobility challenges are supported in safely leaving their homes to participate in public events. This ensures equal access for all residents and promotes shared enjoyment of Chiayi County’s development. She hopes that the activities arranged during this lantern festival will encourage more people with disabilities to go outdoors and increase their social involvement.

In addition, on March 10 and 12, the department arranged transportation for residents of the Chiayi Branch of the Genesis Social Welfare Foundation to visit the festival by accessible rehabilitation bus. They joined Director Chang in viewing the lantern displays, experiencing the lively atmosphere, appreciating the beauty of each lantern zone, and taking commemorative photos in the Main Lantern Area. Director Chang expressed her hope that this series of visits would help the public better understand the importance of dignity and care for people with disabilities.

Director Chang accompanied the residents of the Genesis Foundation as they admired the lantern works, while also checking on their well‑being and daily living conditions. Director Hsiao Yu‑wen of the Foundation’s Chiayi Branch expressed gratitude for the thoughtfully arranged transportation and accessible route planning, which allowed residents to enjoy the lantern festival and create wonderful memories.

Director Chang emphasized that anyone may become a person with disabilities due to illness, accidents, or aging. Therefore, people with disabilities should have more opportunities for social participation, and should not lose access to activities or social connections due to physical limitations. Chiayi County Government will continue to improve the service quality and capacity of rehabilitation buses, strengthen accessibility measures for major events, and enhance both hardware and software facilities to build a more inclusive, diverse, and warm Chiayi.