Wang Ya (L) with a student she sponsored [Women Voice]

An elderly retiree in Tianjin has been committed to helping impoverished students complete their studies for 20 years and hopes to inspire more people to show care and compassion to young learners.

Wang Ya first began donating to students in 1989 through Project Hope run by China Education Development Foundation.

In 2016, Wang was inspired by the story of Professor Zhao Jiahe of Tsinghua University, who donated all his life savings to help impoverished students in western China before he passed away.

Soon afterwards, she started to donate money to a foundation which was initiated by Zhao in northwest China's Gansu Province.

Last March, Wang became a volunteer of the foundation, making home visits, reviewing students' materials and visiting special schools. She regarded this as her biggest goal after her retirement.

In April, Wang was diagnosed with late-stage pancreatic cancer, but she did not stop her charity work.

In May, hospitalized, Wang still managed to send donations she had already prepared for the foundation.

In August, she abandoned her treatment and decided to make home visits in Gansu with what energy she had left.

Wang also decided to donate an apartment to the foundation and signed up as an organ donor.

Up till now, Wang has funded seven high school students.

She said that, although she is retired, she still wants to be useful in society. For her, helping students in need brings her happiness.

In addition to material support for children, Wang hopes they can be free to choose whatever they want to do.

Wang Ya (2nd L) visits the home of a student she sponsored. [Women Voice]

Wang Ya's donation certifications [Women Voice]

Wang Ya (4th L) with students [Women Voice]

Wang Ya (2nd L) signs a house donation agreement with a company belonging to her friend. [Women Voice]

Wang Ya's home [Women Voice]

(Source: Women Voice/Translated and edited by Women of China)

http://www.womenofchina.cn/womenofchina/html1/people/everyday/1812/5122-1.htm