'The benefactor in tattered clothes'

QTO - At the age of 50, when most people have found a peaceful haven with a wife and children, Mr. Tran Huu Que (born in 1976), residing in Con Tien commune, is still single. His acquaintances often affectionately say: "Mr. Que hasn't married yet because he's already 'fallen in love' with volunteer work."

"I don't want anyone to have to go through the same hardships as me."

Early in the morning, while the dew still clung to the grass and trees, the people of Hao Son village saw Mr. Que carrying his basket to the vegetable fields. For many years, his tall figure and worn-out shirt have become familiar. In the place where Mr. Que was born and raised, the vegetable thrives on the clean, naturally flowing water of the ancient well system. It is considered a famous local specialty. However, at times, the area planted with this vegetable has gradually shrunk because people could not find a market for their produce. This is a concern for many people, including Mr. Que.

To preserve the "brand" of his hometown's wild greens, Mr. Que has acted as a bridge between vegetable growers and traders inside and outside the province. For the past 8 years, this bridge has helped many families achieve a more stable life. Furthermore, seeing that some households lacked income during the off-season, Mr. Que formed a group to earn money through jobs such as harvesting peppers for hire, cleaning gardens, and working in the fields. Whenever anyone needed assistance, he and his group members were there.

Mr. Tran Huu Que was honored to receive the "Contribution to the Community" award - Photo: QH

Seeing Mr. Que struggling with so much hard work, some people couldn't understand what drove him to work so hard. Whenever asked, Mr. Que would smile kindly and explain that he wanted to earn more income to stabilize his life and help the poor. This man's aspirations stemmed from his difficult childhood. Born and raised in a poor family with many siblings, Mr. Que became familiar with buffaloes and plows at a young age. He and his older sister had to drop out of school to give their younger siblings the opportunity to continue their education. "Having lived in hardship, I understand and don't want anyone else to have to struggle like I did," Mr. Que confided.

Knowing that his days of wealth and abundance were still far off, Mr. Que decided to help the poor to the best of his ability. He started with small gifts for needy households in the area. When he lacked material resources, he readily contributed his time and effort. To help the poor more regularly and effectively, he also set aside a portion of his monthly income for a charitable fund. From his actions, the nickname "the philanthropist in worn-out clothes" was born.

The clothes may be worn out, but the spirit remains strong.

When news spread that Mr. Tran Huu Que had received the "Contribution to the Community" award, the peaceful countryside where this kind-hearted man lives seemed to come alive. Everyone was happy because Mr. Que's quiet contributions were recognized by the Vietnamese Volunteer Community. "Many people came to congratulate and encourage me. That's the greatest gift," Mr. Que shared.

Not only does he help people in his local area, but for many years, Mr. Que's charitable efforts have extended to remote rural regions. At one point, he left his hometown for nearly a month to travel to the North to provide relief to people affected by natural disasters and floods. Mr. Que is also a member of the "Zero-Cost Canoe Team," which specializes in assisting people in need and distress. Behind the many free porridge distributions at hospitals, programs aimed at children in mountainous areas, people with disabilities, and poor children… is his quiet presence. Mr. Que's motto for doing good deeds is: "My clothes may be worn out, but my heart remains."

Mr. Que confided that every time he helps someone, he feels like he's reliving his past self. The only difference is that now, he's on the side of the giver. For him, that's a great "privilege" in life. Therefore, he actively participates in activities of the Red Cross Society and the Youth Union, volunteering in many programs and activities... To date, Mr. Que has donated blood voluntarily 27 times, including 5 times in emergency situations for patients. His concept of "giving" is expanding more and more.

Speaking of the "well-dressed philanthropist" in his hometown, Mr. Cai Viet Chi, Chairman of the Red Cross Society of Con Tien commune, said: "Mr. Que may not have much money, but he always has an abundance of kindness. He almost never hesitates to help people, especially those in difficult circumstances. His story has helped many people understand that: To give, you don't necessarily need to be rich; what's most important is a heart big enough."

Quang Hiep

Source: https://baoquangtri.vn/xa-hoi/202605/nha-hao-tam-ao-son-4230320/