This summer is sizzling hot. On top of the pandemic, life has been difficult for the grassroots. Indoor temperature in subdivided flats can be higher than outdoor temperature in the summer. Residents no longer hang around parks and shopping malls to enjoy a bit of cool, like what they used to do in the past, because of the fear for the pandemic. Workload of cleaning workers has increased significantly too. Working in the blazing sunshine make them more vulnerable to heat stroke.

For grassroots families, cooling products and anti-epidemic items account for a substantial part of their expenses. Therefore, YWCA organised “A Cup of Cold Water Campaign” to help 300 families living in subdivided flats and 200 cleaners. The campaign started in July and on the opening day, 42 volunteers from Kerry Group followed YWCA staff to visit 28 families in Sham Shui Po. Under the Very Hot Weather Warning, volunteers climbed the stairs to go up the tong lau in the area and gave out gift packs with fan, fruits, bottle drinks, ice towel, cooling arm sleeves, surgical masks etc. It was tiring, yet rewarding. The volunteers were welcomed by the residents and excited children. Volunteers also expressed empathy towards the families after experiencing the heat staying in the crowded flats.

“A Cup of Cold Water Campaign” will last until early September, and offer care and assistance to the subdivided flats residents and cleaning workers through regular visits. The Association is grateful for Kerry Group’s sponsorship for the cooling and anti-epidemic supplies, and for Hung Fook Tong Group Holdings Limited’s free bottle drinks. We look forward to working hand in hand with our partners to serve the needy.