Children’s Wellbeing In Sub-Divided Units Is Our Concern

Our Mong Kok Service Centre (MKC) is located in Yau Tsim Mong, which is one of Hong Kong’s poorest and densely populated locations. The buildings are generally very old and there are many “subdivided units,” or “horrible housing” options. Because the units are so cramped, most of the children living in them don’t have even have a desk or dining table to sit at and do their homework. If they’re lucky they may have a small chair, but many have to do their homework in bed.

To help the subdivided flat dwellers the PolyUniversity’s Jockey Club Design Institute for Social Innovation (JCDISI) decided to explore potential solutions through a participatory co-design with other interested parties. Dubbed the “Furniture for Our Future” Project, it was organized by JCDISI and funded by Hongkong Land HOME FUND, and resulted in custom designed children’s furniture!

The wonderful news is that Mary, who is in Primary 1 and has special education needs, along with 66 other children who are enrolled at our MKC, now have their own adjustable table, chair, stool, reading board and leg rest!

Jesus’ famous words, “Let the little children come to me,” from Matthew 19:14a is a relatively simple verse, but it reveals God's profound affection for children. Let us continue to pray and bless our children, to have the same profound affection, and proactively do all we can for the most disadvantaged of Hong Kong’s children.

Siew Mei