20 Secondary 3A students joined the kindness walks organized by ImpactHK on 25^th June and 2^nd July. They were focused on providing kindness and support for the homeless and needy throughout Hong Kong. ImpactHK now holds about 20 walks per month, with up to 25 volunteers from various countries attending each session. It aims to build trust and friendship with the homeless in the hope of creating opportunities for change. Along the way, it also supports others in need, such as the elderly, cleaners and the poor. Before the walks, students listened to Jeff Rotmeyer sharing with them the problem of homelessness, the stories of the homeless and how the charity offered help. The students responded by asking a range of questions related to varied issues, for instance, the government welfare, the problems encountered by the homeless, and their thoughts. On the walks, as well as building connections with the homeless community, the students provided and distributed necessities including food, drink and masks. In the experience, they raised awareness about people in need, and recognized the importance of holistic care. In the reflection session, the students shared what they saw and appreciated on the walks.

 

Overall, the students enriched their knowledge about the homeless from the sharing of Jeff Rotmeyer and reflected on the issue by asking some meaningful questions. Despite the hot and rainy conditions, students endeavored to deliver necessities to the needy in Tai Kok Tsui. Their arms were filled with trays of eggs, bunches of bananas, bags of snacks, boxes of toiletries and bottles of water. They stopped at different places to learn about the living and working environment of the needy. Learning by experience, they deepened their understanding of the hardship of the needy. Through the kindness walks, the students expressed care and appreciation towards the street cleaners and workers at refuse stations, who get low wages but put a constant effort to make our city clean and favorable. It is hoped that more students can join the kindness walks next time to show their kindness and compassion to the homeless and needy.