Hundreds of disabled people in Shenzhen gathered to celebrate the 12th International Day for the Disabled on Wednesday in Dajiale Square in Futian.

A total of 40 people received special three-wheel motorcycles for the disabled from the local government.

The theme of this year's celebration is "making a better life together and participating in society equally."

The Shenzhen Municipal Government allocated 6.3 million yuan (US$760,000) for the disabled over the past two years. Another 1.44 million yuan (US$173,980) has been allocated for about 200 three-wheel motorcycles.

"With the new motorcycle, I can go out freely. It is really convenient," one man said, expressing his gratitude to the government.

During the ceremony, the Shenzhen Affiliate of the American International Assurance Company Ltd. donated hearing aids for deaf children in the Shenzhen Early Intervention Center for Children with Special Needs.

Students from Yuanping Special Education School gave an entertaining performance.

There are about 30,000 disabled people in Shenzhen receiving a total of 6.3 million yuan in subsidies. More than 3,000 of these people are in financial difficulties.

(Shenzhen Daily December 4, 2003)