Y12 Lucas Ng - Poverty and Human Rights
During the service trip, we engaged in meaningful learning experiences focused on poverty and human rights in Hong Kong.
Food surplus contributes to significant waste, while many people face hunger. With Food Angel, we sort out donated food and pack lunches for those in need, highlighting the importance of redistributing food to vulnerable populations, and our ethical action to be sustainable.
Homelessness in Hong Kong is also climbing drastically, violating fundamental human rights. We handed out snacks and water with HK Impact and learned about the complex reasons behind the issue, such as job losses and mental health struggles. We also learned about the difficulties in staying connected with homeless people, due to trust issues. This serves as a reminder that poverty issues are deeply entrenched and that real change requires patience, empathy, and that we can't help them all.
Many elderly individuals face poverty due to financial insecurity and inadequate social security systems. The elderly simulation by OXFAM allowed us to experience the common struggles the elderly face in their daily lives. Highlighting our obligation to advocate for public awareness and support for this vulnerable demographic.
The Crossroads Foundation underscored the right to accessibility and inclusion. As we participated in a "blind experience" led by a visually impaired facilitator, and an interactive activity on HIV awareness. Both activities foster understanding and empathy towards these communities, deepening our understanding of the complexities surrounding the issue.
Community building was also explored during the trip by designing neighborhood games using limited materials and the environment. By creating games, we provided the neighborhood with opportunities to play while promoting social cohesion, essential for development and well-being, fostering a sense of community and belonging.
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