Author Lin Li Qing founded Friends of Social Entrepreneurship, a social enterprise where homeless individuals provide floor-cleaning services to schools and organizations. Lin believes that instead of giving temporary aid, it’s better to teach self-reliance. He hopes to help more people rise from hardship and contribute positively to society.

Lin explains that their motto, “Homeless Clean the Floors, Social Innovation,” reflects their mission. Unlike standard cleaning services, his team members are all homeless, ranging from 22 to 67 years old. Their tasks include floor cleaning and organizing homes of the recently deceased, helping participants regain confidence and hope.

One key aspect, Lin notes, is the instant gratification from the job; as they clean, the results are visible, offering a sense of accomplishment. “For many, it’s the first time they feel that effort leads to reward,” Lin says. This experience helps restore their hope in rejoining society.