As the pandemic rages on, nearly all sectors across the economy are deeply affected. Sole bread winners of families toeing on or below the poverty line are losing their jobs or having their wages significantly reduced.
The wait for help from social welfare and food banks is getting longer and longer. Savings are being depleted. Many families are increasingly struggling to put food on the table. In Kwun Tong District, which is ranked, in terms of poverty situation, in the bottom-3 amongst all Districts in Hong Kong, livelihoods for many families are already challenging before the pandemic. Pandemic makes survival much more difficult.
As such, our Club is partnering with Caritas Community Centre – Ngau Tau Kok (“Caritas”) to distribute, beginning in mid-September, food coupons to around 250 grassroots families and families living in subdivided units in Kwun Tong District identified to be in most urgent need of help. The coupons are designed to bridge the gap between applying for and receiving governmental and other assistance.
A small kickoff ceremony was held at Caritas on September 17. Those in attendance included: President Mark and Catherine, Charter President Patrick, Past Presidents Eddie, Grace, Angela, and Webster, President Elect Sam, and Rotarian Jason. The initial batch of food coupons has been distributed to about 30 families. Members and spouses were also able to interact with some of the food aid recipients in a private but cozy sharing session. In addition, 2000 masks, donated by Rotarian Kelvin, were presented to some of the families. Mobile tablets, donated by friends and families, were also presented to Caritas.
A follow-up event will be held on October 12, 3-4pm. District Governor Eric Chak has confirmed he will join us to understand more about the impact of this project.
