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The Social Welfare Department (SWD) has invited interested non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to submit proposals for operating the second batch of the Child Development Fund (CDF) projects to be launched in the first half of 2010.
A department spokesman said, "The first batch of CDF pioneer projects, rolled out in December 2008, were well received and widely supported by different sectors of the community. The Government plans to roll out 15 second batch projects in the first half of 2010. We estimate that at least 1,500 children from a disadvantaged background will benefit."
The Government set up the $300 million CDF to provide children from a disadvantaged background with more personal development opportunities, so as to reduce inter-generational poverty. CDF projects help participants draw up and implement their own development plans as well as develop an asset-building habit, thus preparing them for long-term development.
"Eligible NGOs are welcome to submit proposals. The applicant must be a charitable organisation registered under Section 88 of the Inland Revenue Ordinance (Cap 112), with a good track record in the provision of children and youth services in Hong Kong in the past five years.
"Selected NGOs are expected to start recruiting children for the projects in May."
Application form and guidelines are available on the website of the Social Welfare Department (http://www.swd.gov.hk/en/index/site_whatsnew/). A briefing session for prospective applicants will be held on January 26 at the Henry G Leong Yaumatei Community Centre.
The proposals, together with the duly completed application forms, should be submitted by hand to the Child Development Fund Office, Social Welfare Department, Room 942, 9/F, Wu Chung House, 213 Queen's Road East, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, before 5pm on February 26.
Ends/Friday, January 8, 2010
Issued at HKT 10:55
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