Shanghai's 2025 charity week, which started on Aug 31 and runs through to Sept 6, is spreading warmth and goodwill across the city.

Over in Putuo district, that warmth comes with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee.

The district kicked off a themed charity market at Global Harbor on Sept 1, attracting crowds with public-welfare project displays, charity coffee sales and latte demonstrations.

The activities not only offered a lively experience but also gave residents a closer look at the daily challenges faced by migrant and autistic children, making the spirit of giving more tangible.

Migrant children often face special challenges and opportunities while navigating life in the urban areas, often separated from their rural roots.

Among the stallholders was Xiao Song, owner of M2FE Coffee and a barista with hearing loss. Despite his physical challenges, his enthusiasm for charity never falters.

Bringing his shop's handcrafted coffee to the event, he hoped to pass some kindness forward. Speaking through sign language, Xiao Song said: "Our shop employs three hearing-impaired staff members.

"We usually communicate with customers by phone and their friendliness has always encouraged me. Taking part in this market to help others makes me truly happy," he added.

For every item sold at the charity market, organizers pledged to donate one yuan (about 14 cents) to local charities. The initiative met with strong support, as many residents gave generously and eagerly made purchases.

This year's charity week has also introduced 25 special pop-up stores across the city, including 11 in Putuo district. At these shops, customers can scan a QR code to donate through a dual "offline plus online" channel.

Each donation comes with a small token of appreciation and supporters can choose from a coffee cup, toy, keychain, or handmade coffee bracelet as a keepsake.

The participating Putuo locations are:

• LYFEN (No 3300 North Zhongshan Road)
• tuan bakery + cafe (No 28 Alley 583, Langao Road)
• Bistro-Idol (1F, No 6 Alley 276, Luding Road)
• Liu Coffee (No 76 Jizhen Road)
• Advenbird (1F, No 162 Changshou Road)
• Shen Huo Guan (No 1278 Tongchuan Road)
• Elefanco (Nos 100-104 Changshou Road)
• OR.SO Coffee Lab & Bar (West Guangfu Road and North Laozhen Road intersection, Changzheng town)
• The Second Coffee Brewers (Room 101b, No 20 Alley 599 East Yunling Road)
• Inch Hub (Building 4, No 160 Daduhe Road)
• Another Mountain Coffee (No 3329 North Zhongshan Road)

Source: Official WeChat account of Shanghai Putuo Media Center