On The Record
Salvation Army reliable Gov't partner
(February 23, 2016)
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Chief Secretary Carrie Lam
Last December, the Government launched the five-month "Appreciate Hong Kong" Campaign, which aims to serve as a platform for co-operation among different sectors to organise and launch various activities and projects that will encourage the public to appreciate Hong Kong more, as sometimes we tend to take things for granted.But what warrants a much deeper appreciation is the decades of service rendered by the Salvation Army to the people of Hong Kong. With almost 80 social services units, 33 schools and nurseries, 17 churches, one outpost and 16 Family Stores, the work of the Salvation Army in Hong Kong and Macau over past 85 years has been exemplary. They address the changing welfare needs of the community, in particular the provision of high quality elderly and rehabilitation services, as well as services for the disadvantaged groups through its various community studies and innovative projects.
Apart from subvented and self-financing social services, the Salvation Army has spared no effort in promoting the spirit of sustainable development and self-reliance. Through funding from the Enhancing Self-Reliance Through District Partnership Programme, the Salvation Army sets up various social enterprises covering thrift shops, a computer recycling station and a rehabilitation centre for the elderly. These social enterprises provide opportunities for under-privileged women, low-educated or low-skilled people, unemployed middle-aged people and new arrivals to make good use of their talents. The Salvation Army has always been and remains the Government's most reliable partner in the delivery of welfare services. Indeed, poverty alleviation and better elder care are top on the current-term Government's policy agenda.
On behalf of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government, let me express my deepest thanks to the Salvation Army for its dedicated social services in Hong Kong in the past 85 years. I trust that with the inspiring leadership from the International Headquarters and continuous efforts from all members of the Hong Kong & Macau Command, the Salvation Army will scale new heights in the years to come.
Chief Secretary Carrie Lam made these remarks at the Salvation Army Appreciation Reception on February 23.
