It seemed like finding people in need would be easy, but it turned out to be quite challenging. To ensure they were helping the right individuals, the group spent many nights, from midnight to 2 a.m., walking the streets of Ho Chi Minh City, observing the lives of the homeless and distinguishing between those truly in need and those pretending to be. Not everyone accepted their offer of a new home, as many were wary of rules like returning by 11 p.m. and no longer being allowed to beg.

 

Slowly, the first person joined, then the second, and the third, all after days of learning, building trust, and approaching the elderly. Currently, Tri Nguyen Cares has taken in three elderly individuals, each over 70, who had been living on the streets for years with no home.

 

One of the elderly residents is 93 years old. He has no children and keeps much of his past hidden. It is known, however, that he has lived in Ho Chi Minh City since his wife passed away and does not like to discuss his children.

 

Another resident is originally from the city, but after a fire destroyed his home, and his children's business failed, he was left with nowhere to live. His wife had left him long ago, and the group found him living on an abandoned boat on the Saigon River during a 42-degree Celsius day.

 

A third resident, 73 years old, remains relatively healthy and sharp. He used to sell second-hand clothes and often stayed in the Hai Ba Trung area. Tri Nguyen Cares members frequently passed by, offering him food and money, learning about his simple joys like washing his face or taking a shower, which made them understand the struggles of those who have to make a living far from home.

 

On average, Tri Nguyen Cares spends nearly 10 million VND each month on rent, utilities, and food for the elderly. When welcoming the homeless into their new home, they proudly hung a sign that reads, "Tri Nguyen Cares - Don't call me homeless," reflecting their mission not only to provide shelter but also to help the elderly become self-sufficient through job opportunities.

 

Tri Nguyen Cares plans to expand the project, aiming to house around 10 homeless individuals soon, with three people per room, and hopes to spread the project further. If more members join, they will seek a larger space to accommodate everyone.