"Tet Yeu Thuong" – Bringing Warmth to Orphaned Children
Ho Chi Minh City and Phan Thiet City, Binh Thuan Province, Vietnam
March 14th, 2022
As Tet approached, while the streets sparkled with lights and flowers, some corners remained quiet, where children orphaned by COVID-19 faced their first New Year without family. Understanding their loss, Tri Nguyen Cares launched the "Tet Yeu Thuong" program, delivering 30 Tet gifts and cash to children in Ho Chi Minh City and Phan Thiet, Binh Thuan, hoping to bring warmth and love during this special time.
Memories in Their Eyes
Early in the morning, the team set out with baskets filled with sweets, essential goods, and red envelopes. At a shelter in Ho Chi Minh City, they were greeted by bright yet sorrowful eyes. Minh Anh, 8 years old, clutched a worn teddy bear as she softly said:
"My parents passed away due to COVID, but I saved a box of cakes to offer to them this Tet. I miss them so much!"
Her words left the group silent, hearts heavy. No one could replace their parents, but they could at least bring comfort and care.
More Than Just Gifts
At each stop, the group distributed Tet packages, creating a festive atmosphere as volunteers and children decorated peach blossoms, arranged fruit trays, and practiced calligraphy.
Ms. Nguyen Thi Lanh, a caregiver at the shelter, shared:
"Since losing their parents, the children have been so quiet. But today, seeing them laugh and play again, I truly thank the volunteers for bringing them a real Tet."
In Phan Thiet, Binh Thuan, the team visited families where orphans lived with aging grandparents, struggling even more after their loss. The red envelopes were not just for Tet, but a source of encouragement for them to keep moving forward.
Tet is About Togetherness
As they said goodbye, the volunteers felt a mix of relief and lingering concern. The joy in the children’s eyes, the tight hugs, they were reminders that Tet is not just about food and tradition, but about love, connection, and shared humanity.
For Tri Nguyen Cares, the journey does not end with one Tet season. They will continue, ensuring that no child feels alone, because somewhere, there will always be hands ready to support and hearts ready to care.
Nguyen Mai Chau,