Since 2008 deputies to the National People's Congress (NPC) have proposed to introduce new regulations for charities, to tighten the laws about them and encourage more people to participate in their work. Recently during this year's two sessions (the National People's Congress and the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference), the draft of the country's first charity law was discussed.

In Shanghai a special group (spouses and partners of diplomats stationed here) has been working to help improve the lives of women and children in China. The Consular Spouses Shanghai (CSS) organization was formed in 1995 to promote cultural exchanges among member countries and help the local community through charitable works and events. Over the past years the CSS has donated more than 6.5 million yuan ($1 million) and supported 60 charity projects in Shanghai and in Anhui and Jiangsu provinces.

The annual CSS fundraiser (in conjunction with the Shanghai Women's Federation) took place on Saturday at the Zendai Himalayas Center in Pudong New Area and more than 500,000 yuan was raised.

"Our annual fundraiser has become a calendar event in Shanghai. We normally organize it at this time to coincide with the International Women's Day celebrations," said Busisiwe Thage, the CSS president.

Organizers set up 18 stands selling household items and appliances and CSS members donated 80 separate items, including table lamps, paintings and tea sets, for an auction. Corporate sponsors provided tour packages, air tickets and hotel accommodation packages for the auction as well.

"All of the proceeds go to the Shanghai Children's Foundation. We hope that our love will bring children new hope and a brighter future," said Xu Feng, the president of the Shanghai Women's Federation.

An auction staff member holds a vase by Taneez from Pakistan and was donated by the Consulate General of Pakistan. Photo: Yang Hui/GT

Xu Feng, the president of the Shanghai Women's Federation, addresses the Consular Spouses Shanghai (CSS) fundraiser. Photo: Yang Hui/GT

CSS president Busisiwe Thage greets guests. Photo: Yang Hui/GT

This woman makes sure her auction bid is noticed. Photo: Yang Hui/GT

Four ladies from the CSS Board enjoy the action at the auction (from left to right): Valeria, Ilse, Lydia and Isabella  Photo: Yang Hui/GT

 

A young artist brandishes his work for sale at the CSS fundraiser on Saturday. Photo: Yang Hui/GT

Visitors at the CSS fundraiser look over some of the items for sale. Photo: Yang Hui/GT