Photo credit: Hong Kong Free Press
Hong Kong’s homelessness situation has taken a turn for the worse in recent years. Due to sky-high rents and other external factors, some of Hong Kong’s less-fortunate are forced to sleep on the streets at night.
One charity tackling this pressing issue is Impact HK. Since 2015, they have been working towards rehabilitating the homeless, but most simply, showing acts of kindness towards those who need it.
Recently, I was fortunate enough to participate in one of Impact HK’s programmes: Kindness Walks.
The programme is the bedrock of Impact HK’s charitable platform. Providing kindness and support to those who most need it, and it is through these walks can one “build trust and friendship with the homeless in the hope of creating opportunities for change”.
In my hour-long walk, we gave out fresh water and snacks to the homeless and needy in the Tai Kok Tsui area. During this, I learnt more about Hong Kong’s homeless community and the constant ordeals they deal with.
Having to hear that some of the homeless are alone, nowhere to go and are just “waiting to die” certainly is soul-crushing.
My brief time working with Impact HK was poignant yet truly eye-opening. It was a great way to give back to the local community while fitting in some cardiovascular exercise.
If you’re ever looking to find the perfect blend between fitness and charity, then ImpactHK is definitely is the right place.
You can find out more information about Impact HK's work through their website: www.impacthk.org