Red Cross helps underprivileged families under hot weather

The Hong Kong Observatory recorded an average of 50 hot weather days per year since 2021. It is expected that such weather days will become increasingly frequent. To combat heat-related issues in underprivileged communities, the Hong Kong Red Cross has initiated a series of activities to support those in need.

The Hong Kong Red Cross implements the ''Anticipatory Action''

before extreme weather strikes. In the past, they had provided summer kits to 700 outdoor workers and paid 150 dollars to cover electricity bills to over 200 households. They launched "Heat Action Day" on Saturday to raise public awareness about the threat of extreme heat, and they got three high-profile former directors of the Hong Kong Observatory involved.

Along with Lam Chiu-ying, Shun Chi-ming and Leung Wing-mo, they visited Mr.Chan, an elderly living in a sub-divided unit. Chan has received assistance from the Red Cross at least 5 times since 2025. They evaluated his living condition and helped him clear up some space, allowing more air circulation, and also provided him with materials that could help combat heat, such as fans and electrolyte drinks.

Research shows that the risk of death of the elderly increases by 10% at 31.8 degrees. In addition to physical health, it could also lead to poor mental well-being, increasing the risk of suicide. The Red Cross and its helpers want the public to be more aware of heat-related health risks.

Former Assistant Director of the Hong Kong Observatory, Leung Wing-mo, says " Government can't do everything. Ultimately, we have to rely on ourselves to take care of ourselves. And of course, we have Hong Kong Red Cross that will help a lot of citizens to go through the most difficult time. But ultimately, I think it is the awareness and education that matters."

Hong Kong Red Cross's Secretary General, Eleanor Lam, says "I think different sectors of the society also has to be aware of the impact of this issue to the Hong Kong community as a whole and

think about what we can do from our position. We also call for different sectors of the community to come together and share their resources with people in need."

The Jockey Club has also been one of their community partners, sponsoring the long-term ''Beat the Heat'' Project in Yau Tsim Mong, and it has been ongoing since 2024.

Through the "Beat the Heat" Project, the Hong Kong Red Cross prepared "Cooling spots Community Map" for citizens to look for shelters in extreme hot weather days. These shelters may include local shops, churches, and free museums where people can take a cool break outside of their cramped homes.