Embracing technologies sabotaged basic educations for children living in poverty. RC HK North Point acted swiftly to open opportunities for underprivileged students through donating 100 SIM cards to address online learning for those with limited internet access. On 10th Sept 2020, The Neighbourhood Advice-Action Council commenced distributing SIM cards to deprived pupil in Taipo. With back to schools anticipated from late Sept to early Oct, this temporary solution saves an annual $1,800 for low income family from additional internet cost. While $1,800 may not sound a lot, this amount is dinner money for ingredients to feed a family of 3 for 36 days. To put it into perspective, 100 families will benefit & save an aggregate of $180,000p.a.

Today, we met and learnt the tragic story of one recipient. Plagued by chronic illness, the single mother’s only hope was to give everything to her teenage child. Despite of motherly love, there was NOTHING she could do and she felt despair. While HKSAR government raised her social security benefits over the years, landlords of sub-divided flats raised rents in equivalent amount. With amenities prices going up as well, her purchasing power reduced over the years. This SIM card gave her hope in providing education for her child; which’s the only thing in her life that keeps her living.