By Father Paul Kam Po-wai
Since its launch in 2023, the Light Up Fund—established by the diocese and implemented by Caritas—has accompanied young people on their journeys for two years. This period marks a crucial stage in our mission to rekindle hope in the lives of incarcerated and released young people.
The diocese has always been deeply committed to prisoners’ well-being—not only by providing spiritual guidance and emotional support through specialised prison services, but also by supporting their reintegration into society and helping them rebuild their lives. In recent years, the demand for further education among incarcerated individuals has steadily increased. In response, the diocese established the Light Up Fund to provide ongoing education, career training, psychological support, family restoration, and job-matching services for those aged 35 and under.
Over the past two years, we have witnessed numerous young people equipping themselves through educational courses, finding confidence and direction in vocational training, mending relationships through family counselling, and experiencing the warmth of acceptance in support groups. These transformations reflect not only the acquisition of knowledge and skills, but also a reshaping of life’s values—regaining dignity after loss, rebuilding connections after estrangement, and igniting hope from darkness.
During the Lunar New Year, we organised a celebratory gathering attended by over 60 friends, including Cardinal Stephen Chow, Light Up Fund team members, colleagues, young people, benefactors, and partners. The atmosphere was vibrant and warm. This rare opportunity allowed us to share experiences, connect with one another, and exchange blessings.
One of the most touching moments was the group sharing session, with three young people who had participated in the fund’s programmes in each group. We listened to their feelings, journeys, transformations, reflections, and insights first-hand, and we were all deeply moved. Additionally, several compassionate employers expressed their gratitude for the young people who joined their teams, highlighting their appreciation of the youths’ diligence and commitment, which brought energy and vitality to their workplaces.
We are grateful to God for the blessings, guidance, and care extended to the Light Up Fund team and the young beneficiaries. We have witnessed these young people grow and contribute to society, transforming from beneficiaries into companions on our journey. Through their work and community contributions, they have become servants of God.
We sincerely thank all donors, partners, and every young person for their contributions. The trust and support of everyone have made it possible to “light up” people’s lives. In the future, we will continue to enhance our services, connect more resources, and ensure every young person has a second chance—reintegrating into society with love and support, and contributing their talents.
May every young person who has ever felt lost find their light in God’s mercy and become a beacon for others. Let us walk together and continue this mission of being the salt of the earth and the light of the world.
