HONG KONG: Since its launch in March 2023, the diocesan Light Up Fundraising Programme, run in collaboration with Caritas-Hong Kong, has been supporting young people aged 35 or below who are incarcerated or undergoing rehabilitation, helping them to rebuild their lives with renewed hope and direction.
Working closely with the Correctional Services Department, the programme seeks to accompany young people through love, support and guidance, enabling them to rediscover purpose and reintegrate into society. As of January 2026, more than 750 funding applications had been received, and over 200 rehabilitated young people have benefited from the programme, engaging in career planning, further education or employment opportunities.
Father Paul Kam Po-wai, vicar general, expressed his gratitude to participating employers for their generous support. He noted that the programme’s career development efforts are strengthened by a growing network of companies from a wide range of sectors, including social enterprises, information technology, engineering, education, healthcare, design and hospitality.
Together, these partners have provided more than 100 job placements and internship opportunities.
At the same time, Father Kam expressed hope that more employers would join the initiative. He said many participating companies have observed that rehabilitated young people often demonstrate strong communication skills and a readiness to learn new skills.
He also emphasised the importance of engaging employers from diverse industries, noting that young people need time and space to explore different options as they discern their future paths in life.
According to the programme’s newsletter published last summer, family-focused activities have played a key role in supporting rehabilitation. Initiatives aimed at reconnecting young people with their families—through counselling, support talks and programmes to enhance emotional well-being—have benefited 112 families since the fund’s inception.
In addition, post-release support services have reached more than 1,012 young people over the past two years. These services include hobby groups, psychological counselling, adventure sports, baking classes and expressive arts sessions, all designed to foster a smooth transition back into the community.
