The charity Po Leung Kuk is continuing its 142-year mission of helping Hongkongers in need by equipping young people with career skills
Even those not familiar with the work of Po Leung Kuk (PLK) may have wondered what lies behind the distinctive white facade of the charity’s grade II-listed headquarters on Leighton Road, its home since 1932. And if the building’s walls could talk, they’d have plenty of tales to tell—PLK is one of the most storied charities in the city, having supported those in need for 142 years.
Now, the organisation is looking ahead under the leadership of Ma Ching-nam, chairman of its board of directors. A lawyer by trade, Ma has made sports and technology his priorities since assuming his role at PLK.
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What began in 1878 as an orphanage to protect women and children from kidnapping by criminals has evolved to now care for more than 700,000 people, 300 of which are housed at the Leighton Road complex. The others are spread across Hong Kong throughout residences for children, day care centres, rehabilitation clinics for children and adults with special needs, and schools ranging from kindergartens to colleges. “Today we have almost 50,000 students, which is on par with many of the big schools in Hong Kong. We’ve really blossomed,” Ma says.
The foundation is setting its sights on navigating the 21st century with greater emphasis on technology. In keeping with the times, e-learning and coding will be offered at the Lee Shau Kee Youth Oasis hostel in Yuen Long, which will be the largest youth hostel in Hong Kong once it is completed in two years’ time.
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