Shifting Hong Kong: Health in Action
Shifting Hong Kong is a series of short articles by Hong Kong Shifts. The aim is to shine the spotlight on the city’s NGOs, charities and other organisations focusing on social inclusion initiatives and working to support Hong Kong’s most vulnerable social groups. This week we are sharing our perspectives on Health in Action.
What they do
Health in Action’s mission is to eliminate health inequity in our society. They provide health resources and support such as medical and nursing care, nutritional education and physiotherapy to the most vulnerable communities in Hong Kong (including the working poor, marginalised ethic minorities, refugees and asylum seekers). They are all about putting health into action; and inspiring and empowering individuals through health literacy!
Vibes
We visited the brand new community and health centre in Kwai Tsing, the main neighbourhood that Health in Action is serving, and were greeted by a young, enthusiastic and dynamic team with big smiling faces. The team was buzzing away productively in a separate office space, but the general vibe was one of playfulness and positivity. The community area was spacious, colourful and homey - decked out with thoughtful and comfortable furnishings ready to welcome their beneficiaries.
What we loved
Holistic care: Health in Action understands that social issues are deeply integrated with and affects both physical and mental health. Apart from providing free healthcare services, they also work closely with social workers to ensure that the community that they serve have access to more holistic support.
Second home: The space is so much more than a healthcare centre; it’s also a second home for workers such as street cleaners to rest, relax and connect with their community. There is a brightly-lit and well-equipped kitchen, a dining area, shower facilities and comfy sofas for workers to enjoy in between shifts or after work.
Preventative approach: Apart from providing targeted support on existing health issues, Health in Action also puts a strong focus on enhancing health literacy as a preventative measure to empower low-income families and workers to take charge of their own health. They achieve this through consultations, workshops and occupational health support using accessible, easy-to-follow tips and resources.
Something extra
We were lucky to have had the opportunity to accompany Chelsy, a nutritionist at Health in Action, to visit some of her street cleaner beneficiaries at a few refuse centres and buildings in the neighbourhood. It was so heartwarming to see the friendly, kind and compassionate interactions between the Health in Action team and the community that they serve; their care and passion really shines through.
How you can help
If you specialise in a healthcare or medical field and would like to volunteer your services, do get in touch here. For those who would like to make a donation to support their meaningful programmes, please do so here. Finally, read the wonderful story of Chelsey, Health in Action’s Nutritionist, and share it with your friends and contacts to promote their great work!