A woman learns embroidery at the training course in Zhexiang town on Feb 28. [Photo provided by Liu Xiancheng]

Providing new houses for impoverished citizens at its relocation site is just Zhexiang town’s first step to help those in need. Local authorities have also conducted training courses for newly relocated residents to fit in the new environment.

Zhou Xiuqin, of the Miao ethnic group, moved to the town’s relocation site with her family after the Spring Festival. “What I worried about the most is how to find a job near our new home,” said Zhou.

Her anxiety was relieved when she quickly found a job at a nearby park embroidering ethnic handicrafts. As embroidery is a traditional art for Miao woman, she is able to make use of her skills at the new position. The town plans to relocate more than 10,000 impoverished residents to provide them with better living conditions. Currently, about 2,000 people have moved to new homes in Zhexiang. “We will make sure every household has at least one person find a new job,” said Zhou Jun, vice secretary of Zhexiang.

Woman of relocated households learn embroidery at the training course arranged by the Zhexiang government on Feb 28. [Photo provided by Liu Xiancheng]