In an effort to assist individuals with mental health challenges in integrating into society and alleviate the burden of family care, the Miaoli County Government has secured funding to establish its second mental health clubhouse, "Hesinsanjiao Club House," in Zhunan Township. The unveiling ceremony was presided over by County Magistrate Chung Tung-chin on March 11. Magistrate Chung urged individuals recovering from mental health issues to bravely step forward and actively utilize the free clubhouse services. The aim is to help them rediscover their life's purpose through the delegation of daily tasks within the clubhouse, fostering mutual growth among members, and facilitating their prompt reintegration into society and the workforce.
According to the Director of the Social Affairs Department, Miaoli County, Chang Kuo-dong, Miaoli County has established seven daytime service points and five small workshops for people with disabilities in recent years, primarily catering to those with intellectual disabilities. In order to diversify the services available at these points and to enable individuals with mental health challenges to break away from their traditional roles of being cared for and to provide a place of protection, the county inaugurated its first mental health clubhouse, "Oasis Club House," in Miaoli City in 2022. The clubhouse is operated by the "Jhen Jhuassn Association," where those recovering from mental health challenges serve as members to decide the operation of the clubhouse on their own.
The Social Affairs Department stated that, to cater to more individuals recovering from mental health challenges, the county selected Zhunan Township as the location for its second clubhouse. The "Miaoli County Genesis Care for Disadvantaged Association" has been entrusted with its operation on Huanshi Road in Zhunan Township, under the name "Hesinsanjiao Club House." The name symbolizes mutual support, companionship, and growth within the clubhouse.
County Magistrate Chung Tung-chin emphasized that individuals recovering from mental health issues require similar institutional care interventions as provided in the “daycare centers” under the long-term care policy. He expressed his hope that in the future, each legislative district would have at least one mental health clubhouse to facilitate member interactions, gatherings, and foremost, to alleviate families’ burden for caretaking. A nominal fee of NT$30 for lunch per member per day is symbolic, aiming to provide a warm dining environment akin to a family setting, encouraging members to showcase their culinary skills and promoting harmonious interactions among them.
The Social Affairs Department noted that the clubhouse operates differently from medical models; its key distinction lies in "believing in its members." This entails recognizing the potential of individuals with mental health challenges and not depriving them of the right to make decisions for themselves due to their mental illness. By delegating tasks during working days, the clubhouse aims to strengthen members' self-reliance. The operation is divided into administrative care and catering activities, allowing members to learn how to make decisions for their own lives through daily tasks.
Xu Hong-jing, Chairperson of the Miaoli County Genesis Care for Disadvantaged Association, stated that the clubhouse commenced trial operation in December last year and currently serves eight members. The total indoor space is approximately 90 ping, with a maximum capacity of 40 members. Recovering individuals with mental health issues who become members can autonomously decide how the clubhouse is operated. Currently, activities include growth groups, art creation, health and fitness promotion, gardening, and cooking classes.
Address of Hesinsanjiao Club House: 2F, 330, Section 1, Huanshi Road, Zhunan Township, Miaoli County. Opening hours are from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Qualifications for application include experiencing emotional distress as diagnosed by medical institutions, being registered or residing in Miaoli County, holding a mental illness disability certification, or having a severe illness card. Participation in activities is free, with a daily meal fee charged. For inquiries, please contact 037-460046.