Student Development School Program "Shine Our Way 2022/23"
Background
In March 2022, we met with a group of young proactive social workers from six
Catholic Secondary Schools who asked for our support for the underprivileged
students they serve.
According to their report, the Western District of the New Territories is one of the
poverty-stricken zones in Hong Kong with numerous migrant families from China.
Some students in these schools come from low-income families with parents or
caretakers struggling with financial burdens and emotional issues. The prolonged
weakening of the economy due to COVID-19 worsened their dire situations.
Students from such families often suffer from negligence and abuse. Many lack
the self-esteem to excel in their studies, and others do not have the resources to
develop their interests and talents.
As a result, we developed the “SHINE OUR WAY 2022/23” program to provide needy students with financial resources and educational activities to help build their self-esteem and hope for the future. They were selected by school teachers and social workers.
At the end of the academic year 2022/23, we awarded six students of the above-mentioned secondary schools $3000 for their outstanding improvement during the school year. We also granted “Dream awards” of $500-1000 to more than 15 students. Five beneficiaries of the student development program received $1500 for 12 months. A talented F3 girl used the funds to continue her diploma piano lessons, hoping to follow her dream of studying music
Thank you cards from students who received the dream awards of $1000 in 2022/23.
