The micro film, Spring Bud that Chases the Light, created by Yichun Women's Federation, in Yichun, in East China's Jiangxi Province, was recognized as one of the top 10 outstanding micro films last year, during a national micro film competition focusing on women volunteers. 

Qiu Changhua is the real-life inspiration behind the protagonist portrayed in the micro film. Qiu's life has been transformed by the Spring Bud Project since she received the project's help in 2001. "An aunt helped me via the project. It was more than material help. She provided me with the deep-rooted support that nourished my soul. I made up my mind to study hard and become a contributing member of society," Qiu says. 

In 2020, Qiu, who established her own business, became a Spring Bud mom to a girl, Xiaoling. Qiu frequently visits Xiaoling, to provide her with companionship and take her to various activities organized by Yichun Women's Federation. In an essay, Xiaoling wrote, "My dream is to become a 'Spring Bud mom' like Qiu and bring warmth to others." 

Yichun has many Spring Bud moms, like Qiu, including women's federation cadres, teachers, doctors, and women from various sectors of society. Their love and dedication illuminate the lives of underprivileged children. 

The Spring Bud Mom initiative was launched by Yichun Women's Federation in August 2020. The moms make regular visits to the girls, and they provide one-on-one care and emotional support to the girls. They also communicate with the children's guardians, to learn about the girls' studies and their daily lives.

Xiaoyue, a teenage girl, met her Spring Bud mom, Ding Jing, Vice-President of Yichun Women's Federation, in September 2020. Thanks to the care and companionship of Ding, Xiaoyue, who used to be timid and silent, has gradually become a confident and optimistic girl. 

Another Spring Bud mom, Xiong Jing, is a teacher. Xingxing, the Spring Bud girl she helps, is around the same age as her daughter. "Being a Spring Bud mom not only allows me to provide support to Xingxing, it also allows me to pass on the values of helping others, and being kind to others, to my daughter." 

Liu Huifen, a young cadre with Yichun Women's Federation, is a Spring Bud mom to an elementary school girl. "I will try my best to ensure the healthy growth of the child. Being a Spring Bud mom helps me have a better understanding of the work on women and children," Liu says. 

"The meticulous care and dedication of the moms bring forth sincere smiles from children. The pairing activities have forged strong bonds between Spring Bud moms and the girls, offering guidance, security, care, emotional solace, and assistance to the girls," said Yi Huixiang, President of Yichun Women's Federation. 

Yi is the Spring Bud mom of Xiaoyuan, who lost her father when she was eight months old. Her mother has been working away from home to earn a living. Besides regular visits and support, Yi often welcomes Xiaoyuan into her own home, encouraging her to befriend children who are her age. Yi's husband and child regard Xiaoyuan as a member of their family. 

To date, the Spring Bud Mom initiative has paired 942 Spring Bud moms with Spring Bud girls, and raised 1.498 million yuan (US $214,000) to support the girls. In all, 25 Spring Bud classes have been established in the city.

"With a helping hand, warmth embraces the world; storms dissipate as we embrace others ..." The song, Everyone Knows You Are Beautiful, produced by Yichun Women's Federation, was selected by ACWF's Publicity Department as one of the top 10 excellent volunteers' songs last year.

Photos Supplied by Yichun Women's Federation

(Women of China English Monthly August 2023 issue)