Support in Government Projects to Help the Less-advantaged

http://www.chamber.org.hk/en/doc/FutureStars.jpg

Dear Members,

Despite the fact that Hong Kong is one of the world’s top three business centres, poverty remains a serious issue affecting less fortunate members of our society. The Government has set about alleviating poverty, with its first step being the establishment of an official poverty line for Hong Kong. It has also re-established the Commission on Poverty (CoP) in December 2012, which oversees the Societal Engagement Task Force, chaired by Chief Secretary for Administration Carrie Lam.

In September, the Task Force launched a ‘Future Stars’ programme, which aims to tackle poverty through tripartite cooperation with the public, businesses and Government. Under the programme, three projects targeting underprivileged youths will provide career exploration opportunities and scholarships through the participation and contribution of business associations and enterprises. Under the projects, activities such as corporate visits and apprenticeship experience will be arranged to broaden the horizons of these youths, help them set clearer goals for the future and assist them in moving up the social ladder.

As the Chamber supports such efforts, we have donated HK$200,000 to support one of the projects, but also encourage our members in the business community to participate by offering your company for site visits or providing scholarships (donation of HK$5,250 per scholarship) to the less privileged youths. Please click to download details of the projects and participation form or you may contact the CoP Secretariat at 2810 3854 for enquires. Participation deadline is 25 October 2013.

Talent-Wise Employment Charter and Inclusive Organizations Recognition Scheme launched by the Labour and Welfare Bureau, the Rehabilitation Advisory Committee, the Hong Kong Council of Social Service and the Hong Kong Joint Council for People with Disabilities. As a supporting organisation of the Charter, we are committed in promoting employment of persons with disabilities among our members, thereby unleashing their potential, enabling their self-reliance, fostering social integration and building a caring and supportive society for all. We also encourage corporations or organizations that are directly employing persons with disabilities and implementing related measures for employment of persons with disabilities to join the Scheme. http://www.lwb.gov.hk/charter_scheme/index_e.html#s2

Your support can make a difference!

Yours sincerely, Shirley Yuen CEO Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce