Star Headline
Published: 2026-10-16 11:05:00
Depressed Mother and Her Young Child Lived on the Streets, Rebelling Against Assistance
A disturbing story has emerged from Xi'an, Shaanxi province, where a woman and her 3-4 year-old son have been living on the streets, with the mother suffering from depression and refusing any outside assistance or care.
Recently, a distressing story has been circulating in the vicinity of Santiao Street in Xianxinan New District, Shaanxi province. A woman and her child have been wandering with almost no home, and the mother is suspected of having depression, refusing any external aid and even proving to be unhelpful in the care of her child, whose health could be adversely affected. According to nearby property owners, Ms. Shao and her son, around that age, were practically homeless, with the little boy often seen outdoors without shoes or clothes during wintertime, scavenging for garbage to survive. Reliable Sources have reported that Ms. Shao has garnered concern from neighbors and passersby, who have tried to provide her with clothing and food, but she has repeatedly declined their offers and refused any form of interaction. The report cited feedback from local supermarket merchants, noting that this mother-son duo subsisted primarily on purchasing a bag of baozi or baguettes every day, with few other purchases, raising serious concerns from the public. Ms. Shao has twice divorced and has dealt with chronic mental health issues, being diagnosed with depression in 2023 but refusing systematic treatment. She also reportedly received a lump sum of compensation from the demolition of her village, but continues to refuse the support from family members, leaving her mother with little options. Departmental representatives have visited several times since July 2023 to offer humanitarian aid, but to no avail. Due to concerns over the welfare of a minor, local authorities have established a specialized task force involving social welfare, police, local government offices, and the Women’s Federation to address the situation, which includes guiding the family to have Ms. Shao undergo a mental health evaluation and ensuring the well-being and rights of the vulnerable child. In response to this situation, online users expressed concern and sympathy, stating, 'The child is innocent,' 'It’s heartbreaking,' 'Child welfare institutions and women’s associations must legally forcibly intervene to protect them,' and 'I hope the local government will quickly implement a resettlement plan and help the child take a warm bath and get suitable shoes.'
Source:
Star Headline ↗