In one of Southeast Asia’s largest traditional markets, hundreds of elderly men work as porters, hauling massive bundles of clothing and goods up and down 12 floors, every day from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Some loads weigh over 50 kilograms (110 pounds), yet their daily earnings can be as little as $1 to $2 USD.

But things have changed.

As online shopping grows, fewer customers visit the physical market. Many stores are closing, and porters who once relied on regular jobs are now left with nothing to do. Some sit around all day, waiting. Others lie down in exhaustion or pass the time on outdated mobile phones, hoping someone will call on them.

These men don’t have retirement. They don’t have savings. And they certainly don’t have health insurance.

One of them is Mr. Abidin, a 67-year-old man who has worked as a porter for nearly 10 years. Originally from a rural town, he stays with relatives in the city so he can keep working. His reason? His wife has brain cancer, and for the past four years, they’ve had no money for proper treatment. The surgery she needs is too expensive. “I feel helpless,” he says, his eyes welling with tears.

Mr. Abidin isn’t the only one. Many elderly porters continue to carry heavy loads even after suffering from injuries like hernias or serious falls. Some are grandparents still trying to support their children and grandchildren. Others have no family at all.

There are about 350 porters working in just one of the market’s buildings. With fewer customers and businesses hiring their own helpers, most porters now rely solely on loyal, long-time clients. If they have none, they’re forced to go door to door, pleading for work.

Your donation can help lift the burden they’ve carried for far too long. Support these forgotten workers today and give them the care, dignity, and relief they truly deserve.