As the old adage goes, “Charity must begin at home”. Indeed in challenging times such as these, there are many organisations that need our help but let’s not forgot the groups that are assisting those in need who are living right here in Hong Kong. And there’s probably no more critical time than now to extend a helping hand. We’ve listed some of these charitable organisations that you can help and we promise you, nothing will feel more rewarding.

ImpactHK

In 2017, Jeff Rotmayer decided that once a month, he would go to Hong Kong’s most depressed areas where he would distribute food and supplies. No sooner did this act inspire tens and eventually hundreds more to participate, also getting the attention of donors whose donations empowered what is now ImpactHK, to help even more of the city’s homeless. ImpactHK offers food, temporary shelter, employment and schooling assistance, and counselling, among many other services. And in light of the Coronavirus pandemic, it has helped “McRefugees”, or homeless people who sleep in 24-hour McDonald’s, when dine-in services were forced to halt due to the virus. As unemployment rates rise during this period, more people are expected to lose their homes and ImpactHK needs your help now, more than ever. You can go to their site to donate, or find out how you can volunteer.

Save The Children

Save the Children Hong Kong is part of the Save the Children movement, which is made up of 28 member organisations operating in around 118 countries. During the Coronavirus pandemic, the organisation has been distributing much-needed items to protect and support vulnerable children and their families. In addition to over 50,000 face masks that were distributed to children in Hong Kong’s poorest areas, they have also distributed 200 laptops with pocket WiFi and data SIM cards to help them continue their studies amidst school closures. And the fight is far from over. While we are starting to see a decline in the number of Coronavirus cases in Hong Kong, there unfortunately will always be vulnerable children who need our help. Visit their site to find out how you can donate.

Bethune House Migrant Women’s Refuge

Bethune House is a temporary shelter for women migrant workers in Hong Kong, who are going through some form of injustice, such as physical and emotional abuse from employers, illegal or exorbitant collections from agencies, or are going through some health issues or a rough patch with their immigration papers. Established in 1986, Bethune House provides migrant workers in need with a place to stay and food to eat, as well as counselling. The organisation depends largely on donations and they are knocking on our hearts for help. This can be in form of cash or in kind, such as food, toiletries and personal hygiene products, and during this time, protective masks, sanitisers and gloves. You can check out their Facebook page to find out how.

Hong Kong Adventist Hospital Foundation (HKAHF)

The Hong Kong Adventist Hospital Foundation (HKAHF) was established in 1999 with the objective of providing timely medical treatment to the sick and underprivileged children in Hong Kong, Mainland China and Asia, through its Heart, Hearing, Medical and Orthopaedic Charity Funds. The Foundation also helps adults and the elderly through its Cancer Fund and Eye Fund. And as the pandemic continues to affect Hong Kong’s economy, there will be more families that will seek assistance. You can help by donating or purchasing some items they are offering, the proceeds of which will go the the foundation. All this information can be found in their site.

The HUB Hong Kong

The HUB is a children’s centre that provides educational support, extra-curricular classes, family counselling, social health and well-being services to those who need it most. And during this epidemic, HUB stepped up to the challenge, providing not only kid-size masks, but also toys, fresh fruits, and hand sanitisers to Hong Kong’s underprivileged children. They have so far helped over 200 families living in Sham Shui Po. More of such programmes are being planned so help is needed. You can donate in cash or in kind, in particular, supplies such as masks, sanitisers, food and primary school books. You can visit their Facebook site or send them a Whatsapp message on (852) 9030 4210 to get more details.

Hong Kong Cancer Fund

The Hong Kong Cancer Fund was founded in 1987 by Sally Lo, who is also its CEO. The association raises Cancer awareness through educational campaigns, and provides individuals and family affected by cancer through free professional and specialised cancer care services. Through donations, they are also able to help fund Cancer research and the purchase of hospital equipment. The association believes firmly in the power of early detection, as such public awareness campaigns that educate people of early stage symptoms are paramount. You can help my making a one-off or monthly donations, participate in their events or by simply sharing the group’s campaigns on your social media accounts. And while much of our attention is now on the Coronavirus pandemic, we need to remember that Cancer remains a problem among many in Hong Kong.