A Prodigal Son Returns: A-Ching’s Journey of Redemption
From Inmate to Fresh-Produce Delivery Business Owner, with the Chiayi Rehabilitation Protection Association at His Side

A true story of remorse and rebirth is unfolding in Chiayi. The protagonist, A-Ching, once went down the wrong path because of drugs and served seven years in prison. After his release, with the assistance of the Chiayi Rehabilitation Protection Association, he rebuilt his life and became the owner of a fresh-produce delivery business, proving with his actions that “a prodigal son’s return is worth more than gold.”

Every morning at 5 a.m., while most people are still asleep, A-Ching walks into the market to personally select fresh ingredients. He then returns home to prepare, portion and deliver the produce, and his busy day begins. This job is not only his livelihood, but also a symbol of his life’s restart.

Looking back, A-Ching was formerly a truck driver, but at age 31 he touched drugs and consequently went to prison for seven years for drug trafficking. During his sentence, he deeply reflected on the pain of losing his freedom and felt the concerns and expectations of his family. He resolved that after release he would stay clear of drugs and make a fresh start.

Upon release from prison, A-Ching began the fresh-produce delivery business from scratch. Early on he endured long delivery routes, disordered operations, and fierce competition; it was by no means easy. Yet through resolute faith and step-by-step effort, he gradually built his small business into a stable operation which has now run steadily for over three years, formed a team, and earned his customers’ trust.

“I’ve been running the fresh-produce delivery business for three years now. Starting from a home-style setup to more stability — I sincerely thank everyone for their support and help along the way,” A-Ching said emotionally. He especially expressed gratitude to the Chiayi Rehabilitation Protection Association for accompanying and assisting him at key moments; not only helping him stabilise his life, but enabling him to become a role model for other ex-offenders.

In recognition of A-Ching’s effort and transformation, on the afternoon of October 15, 2025, the association’s Chairman Huang Jun-sen and Chiayi District Prosecutor Tsai Tsung-hsi made a special visit to his business site to learn about his operations and rehabilitation journey. Chairman Huang stated that A-Ching’s story is the best proof that ex-offenders can reverse their lives. He pledged that the association will continue to provide all kinds of support to help more people willing to change reintegrate into society. The Chief Prosecutor Tsai also praised A-Ching’s spirit of striving upward in adversity, and called on society to give rehabilitated persons more understanding and opportunities.

A-Ching’s story embodies the true meaning of “perseverance,” “reflection,” and “rebirth.” Through his experience he tells us: even if you’ve once lost your way, as long as you are willing to change, you can start again. The Chiayi Rehabilitation Protection Association looks forward to continuing to accompany A-Ching into the future, and encourages more rehabilitated persons to bravely pursue their dreams and open a new chapter of their own.