With scorching summer heat engulfing the city, Beilun District has rolled out a heartwarming initiative to care for outdoor workers — such as couriers, food delivery riders, and sanitation workers — who brave the intense sun to keep the city running. Recently, the Beilun District launched the “Cool Summer, Warm Hearts – Volunteers Deliver Tea” campaign at various community service centers throughout the city.

The initiative focuses on addressing the real challenges outdoor workers face. At key traffic intersections and outdoor worker rest stations, thoughtfully placed “cooling supply stations” offer easy access to herbal iced tea. For riders who are often on the go and unable to stop for long, tea stands are set right by sidewalks, allowing them to sip a refreshing drink without even dismounting — a timely oasis amid the urban heat.

Leading the way, volunteers took the initiative, joined by youth volunteers and experienced community helpers. They handed out chrysanthemum tea — brewed for hours — to delivery riders rushing between orders and sanitation workers drenched in sweat. One sip of the cold drink washed away the sweltering discomfort, bringing smiles all around.

“This tea came just in time — sweet on the tongue, warm in the heart!” said a courier as he parked his electric bike and expressed his gratitude repeatedly. Ms. Li, a sanitation worker, wiped the sweat from her brow and added, “You remember us every year. It quenches our thirst, and it makes us feel truly cared for.”

This volunteer campaign is a vivid example of how Beilun is deepening public service and weaving a social safety net of care. By pooling resources across departments and delivering thoughtful support, volunteers are offering a refreshing shade of compassion to the city’s unsung heroes under the summer sun.

A spokesperson from the Beilun Housing and Urban-Rural Development Bureau affirmed:
“They serve the city — we’ll protect them. This cooling campaign will continue throughout the high-temperature season. We’ll rally even more support, expand the ‘cool tea map,’ and make every care station a warm and welcoming harbour for outdoor workers.”

Source: Yongpai

Reporter: Bian Chengyu

Correspondents: Ou Lin, Li Birong

Editor: Ye Ke