On 28 March, a virtual launch ceremony was held to celebrate the official commencement of the second stage of the Golden Age Care Anti-pandemic Support Programme. The event was attended by Dr The Honourable LAM Ching-choi, Member of the Executive Council and Chairman of the Elderly Commission, Mr LEUNG Chung-tai, Director of Social Welfare, Mr CHU Min-kin, Chairman of the Equal Opportunities Commission and over 100 volunteers, individual benefactors and guests from various partnering organisations. Additionally, the event was also attended by social workers, nurses, counsellors and researchers from the “HomeAge” programme organised by the College of Business of the City University of Hong Kong and nurses and nursing students, students from other disciplines and social workers from Tung Wah College.
During the celebration, our team of smart robots “Doctor Golden” led all guests to voice the programme’s slogan – “Golden Age Care, We Care” – to reflect our unity and support for those in need throughout the pandemic. This was also elevated by the determination of our programme team and professional volunteers as they continue to support Residential Care Services for the Elderly (RCHEs) to sustain operations and thrive throughout the pandemic. After the ceremony, 32 “Doctor Golden” robots have resumed their roles in working alongside our volunteers.
In her welcome speech, Mrs Rebecca Yung Choy, Founder and Chair of Golden Age Foundation, thanked our sponsors Bright Future Charitable Foundation, the Kadoorie Charitable Foundation and dozens of benefactors for their trust and encouragement, as well as the Hong Kong Elderly Services Association acting as one of our supporting organisations and our extraordinary and passionate team of volunteers. Mrs Yung continued, “Making any changes involves tremendous effort. But I hope everyone will work together and advance steadily to create positive changes and values for the ageing society!”
During the ceremony, our guests of honour endorsed our programme during their speeches. Here are the excerpts:
“Throughout the pandemic, many small to medium-sized elderly care homes faced severe challenges. Golden Age Care Anti-pandemic Support Programme provides well-adapted support by deploying smart robots to solve critical manpower issues. It has also encouraged stakeholders from various sectors and our society to participate in driving the development of smart ageing technology.” – Dr Lam Ching-choi
“In recent years, the application of smart ageing technology has increased in the elderly care and social welfare sectors. However, much support from the public is still required for these sectors to thrive. Non-governmental organisations can also act as pioneers and explore how technology can help these sectors flourish.” – Mr Leung Chung-tai
“I am extremely grateful for the Golden Age Care Anti-pandemic Support Programme. Aside from donating resources, the programme has also gathered a team of social workers, nurses and volunteers to console elderly care workers and provide feedback and support. A heartfelt thanks to all supporting organisations and volunteers for their generous contribution” – Mr Kenneth Chan
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The road to anti-pandemic support is long, and we need support from all walks of life to make the journey faster and more comprehensive.
Please consider making a donation today to support the Golden Age Care Anti-pandemic Support Program and help us provide ongoing support for those in need.
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