The government in Guangdong is implementing new initiatives to help elderly welfare recipients live in care homes. Chief Executive John Lee has introduced a three-year pilot scheme that will provide subsidies to up to 1,000 elderly individuals who currently receive Comprehensive Social Security Assistance. These recipients will receive monthly subsidies of HK$5,000 to live in designated care homes in Guangdong. Additionally, the Residential Care Services Scheme in Guangdong will be expanded to include seven more residential homes by November 2024.
Furthermore, the government is increasing support for elderly individuals in Hong Kong who wish to stay in the city. There will be a 20-percent increase in the number of vouchers distributed to elderly individuals in need of care but are waiting for a spot in a subsidized care home. Six-thousand vouchers will be distributed to allow beneficiaries to be admitted to their chosen care homes without further delay.
In addition to these initiatives, Chief Executive John Lee announced other poverty-alleviation measures in his Policy Address. The government plans to more than double the number of schools offering after-school care services for primary students. The School-based After-School Care Service Scheme will expand from 50 to over 110 schools, with the goal of allowing parents to work while their children are taken care of.
Moreover, the existing “Strive and Rise” program, which pairs underprivileged children with mentors, will also be expanded. The government aims to increase the number of mentors available to children in need. Additionally, an extra 100 day child care services will be provided at new child care centers, and the service places under the Neighbourhood Support Child Care Project will be increased by 25 percent to accommodate 2,500 children.
These initiatives highlight the government’s commitment to supporting vulnerable populations, including the elderly and underprivileged children, by providing access to essential care services and support systems. The expansion of these programs will undoubtedly make a positive impact on the lives of those in need within the community.