China's social welfare system has achieved unprecedented coverage during the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021–2025), with 44.2 million vulnerable citizens now receiving regular support, according to a State Council report released Thursday. The milestone reflects Beijing's commitment to building what Minister of Civil Affairs Lu Zhiyuan called "a more resilient, equitable, and people-centered safety net."
Targeted Support Systems Take Shape
A new national monitoring mechanism now identifies households in financial distress, while tiered assistance programs have increased urban and rural subsistence allowances by 19.6% and 21.3% respectively since 2020. Over 1.26 million people with disabilities now receive specialized care through expanded community rehabilitation services and nursing subsidies.
Children and Seniors See Major Gains
The system now protects 3 million "left-behind children" of migrant workers alongside orphans and migrant youth. Elderly care saw particularly dramatic growth, with 7.99 million care beds established nationwide and 86,000 subsidized community canteens serving daily meals. Over 49 million seniors now receive age-related allowances.
Grassroots Services Transform Daily Life
From simplified marriage registration to 16,800 new public cemeteries, social services have become more accessible. The charity sector flourished with 16,000 organizations – a 70% surge since 2020 – mobilizing over $28 billion annually in donations.
"This progress ensures modernization benefits reach every corner of society," Minister Lu concluded, noting the achievements align with China's broader goals of common prosperity.
