中文版

Brief Introduction of Street Sleepers Action Committee Limited -

The Street Sleepers Action Committee (SSAC) is a non-government-subvented charitable association. It was formed in 1985, Year of the International Street Sleepers, in Hong Kong by a group of " people who were interested in promoting the cause of the street sleepers"  (i.e. social workers, priests, dentist, hawker, insurance specialist, accountant, ). The SSAC started its work by mainly arousing public attention whenever there were deficiencies in the government policies which might jeopardize the welfare of the street sleepers.

The SSAC has been serving the street sleepers for more than 25 years. Our aim is to help the street sleepers to return to society through care and support. Our main object is to promote the cause of the street sleepers in Hong Kong by:
(a) arousing the concern of the public, the professionals and the Government to their problems and needs;
(b) involving appropriate persons or organizations to the solution of the street sleeping problem; and
(c) advocating for changes to facilitate the elimination of the street sleeping problem.

Major Activities

Seasonal and Festival Visits

• We distribute clothing, blankets and other basic necessities to the street sleepers especially during cold winter days.
• We visit the street sleepers and give them the festive gifts and food during major festivals such as Chinese New Year, Easter, Dragon Boat Festival, Mid-Autumn Festival and Christmas.

Chinese New Year Annual Banquet

• We arrange banquet before the Chinese New Year so that the street sleepers can share the joy of this major Chinese festival.

Dental Assistance

• We sponsor free basic dental services for the street sleepers if necessary.

Free Meals Program

• We provide free lunch and dinner during weekdays for at least one month to those street sleepers without jobs and those waiting for social security.  The period of free meals provided is granted on a case basis.

Warm Meals Program

• Since 11 August 2010, we have been running the Warm Meals Program.
• For those street sleepers falling marginally outside the planned target group (i.e. including those receiving social security).
• We charge the service users at a subsidized rate to inspire a sense of responsibility.

Rental Subsidy/Basic Household Needs

• We provide interest free loan rental deposits to those in need.
• We provide free rental for the first month of the rental period to those who are jobless and waiting for social security.
• We also provide the basic/emergency household necessities such as furniture, blankets, cooking utensils, etc.

Regular Visit

• We visit the street sleepers regularly so as to understand their needs and assist them accordingly.

Referral

• We refer suitable services and organizations to the street sleepers.
• We continue to monitor their progress and evaluate the results.

Job Searching Sponsorship

• We provide free meal and transportation allowances to those who have been invited for job interview.
• We also provide free meals and transportation fees to those who are waiting for their first month salary.

Continual Care and Concern

• We invite the sponsored street sleepers to join as volunteers and encourage them to reciprocate society.

Education

• We share our caring experiences with the public, particularly with the secondary and university students.
• We organize training for volunteers to help the street sleepers.
• We welcome visitors to our Centre to improve their understanding of the SSAC.

Emergency Services

• Hotline: to collect relevant data from the public, and arrange for outreaching services.
• Emergency outreaching services: For those street sleepers who require immediate attention, we will arrange outreaching services or contact other suitable organizations within 24 hours.
• Assist or accompany the street sleepers to the clinic, hospital, Social Welfare Department, Immigration Department, Embassy, home for the aged and rental services etc..

Special Services

• We arrange funeral services for the street sleepers if necessary.
• We provide hair cutting services
• We arrange buffet dinner during Christmas
• We arrange outdoor activities for the street sleepers.