Sharing on global humanitarian crisis by HKRC

Served in a field hospital in the Gaza strip, HKRC volunteer nurse, Carman Kwok witnessed numerous patients suffering both physically and emotionally. She recalled encountering a patient who cried uncontrollably upon learning that she had lost her entire family in the attack. 

Carman shared that she worked in a field hospital. Although it may appear relatively safe, the shelter had still been penetrated with a bullet on one occasion. Despite all the risks, she remained resolute in her mission. "Humanitarian work is not merely about delivering supplies; it is about providing companionship to those in their difficult times and allowing them to feel connected."

Dr. Joyce Ching, Head of HKRC International & Relief Service and Ms. Elaine Fong, Senior Programme Coordinator of HKRC International & Relief Service also engaged in humanitarian efforts in Syria and Afghanistan. Elaine highlighted that apart from receiving external aid, the local Red Crescent Society in Syria has also implemented livelihood programs to assist families affected by earthquakes in developing business plans by providing cash assistance. This initiative aims to strengthen their ability to support themselves and help them rebuild their livelihoods, hoping that they would be financially sustainable in the future. 

Under this program, Sekmani, the sole breadwinner for his eight family members, successfully established his own snack shop selling local delicacies—Falafel, which have become popular within the neighborhood. 

Joyce mentioned that unlike Gaza, Afghanistan has been undergoing a silent disaster. In Afghanistan, about one in every 100 newborns suffers from congenital heart disease. In addition, agriculture has been severely affected by extreme climate events like floods and droughts, causing 3.2 million children to suffer from malnutrition and resulting in 12 million people facing food insecurity. While some patients could recover their health through medical treatments, the ongoing lack of adequate food supplies leaves them at risk of falling back to malnutrition again. Therefore, Hong Kong Red Cross aims to provide support in solving the problem at its roots. 

Your supports shall enable Hong Kong Red Cross to continue our humanitarian works in these countries, and please click here to support our overseas disaster relief work.

https://s.redcross.org.hk/hkrcrdf

Feedback from visitors

"Thank you to all the volunteers and staff for their hard work, which allows us to see things from another perspective that is often overlooked in the media."

"After hearing the speakers share their experiences working abroad and learning about the challenges faced by local residents, I want to sincerely thank all medical volunteers."

"I appreciated Carmen's selflessness and commitment to humanitarian values. Conflict zones really need the International Federation of
Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) to support those in need."