1,500 participated in World Vision’s “Walk for Syria” charity event Over $1.4 million raised to support Syrian refugees

World Vision Hong Kong held the “Walk for Syria” 4km charity walk on 29 October in association with the Clearwater Bay Golf & Country Club. The event attracted around 1,500 participants and raised over $1.49 million to support Syrian families and children with food and education opportunities.

Kevin Chiu, CEO of World Vision Hong Kong said, “The Syria Crisis is the worst humanitarian crisis in our time. Children are especially vulnerable as they suffer physically and emotionally. We thank all of you who participated in the event. Your donations will help World Vision to continue its works that serve the Syrian refugees. I hope everyone will continue to pay attention to what’s happening in Syria and give Syrians the support they much needed.”

Ms. Vivian Chow, who visited Syrian refugees in Lebanon and Jordan last year with World Vision, and Legislative Council member Hon James To both shared their thoughts and encouraged more people to support the Syrian refugees.

After the Walk, participants learned more about the Syria crisis through exhibitions and interactive activities, which include drawings by Syrian children, the “life in a classroom” multimedia experience, and a virtual reality experience of the lives of refugees.

As the Syria conflict enters its sixth year, at least 8.2 million children inside Syria and across the region are now experiencing displacement, interrupted schooling, food insecurity, and more. For the funds raised at this event, every HK$300 can provide food assistance to a Syrian refugee child for 2 months; and every HK$1,500 can support a Syrian refugee child’s learning for 15 weeks.

Since 2011, World Vision has assisted approximately 2.37 million people in Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, Turkey and Iraq, such as providing learning opportunities and psychosocial support for children, constructing water facilities and latrines for refugees, and distributing household items. Click here to learn more.

Published on 29 Oct 2016