Italian Women’s Association charity market comes roaring back in Hong Kong, raising HK$800,000 in single day
- The association was forced to cancel the annual event last year due to the coronavirus pandemic
- A portion of this year’s proceeds will be donated to Operation Santa Claus, an annual fundraising drive co-organised by the Post and RTHK
The Italian Women’s Association (IWA) in Hong Kong brought back its signature annual charity market this month after a year-long hiatus, raking in nearly HK$800,000 in a single day in donations and proceeds from the sale of high-quality goods from il bel paese.
Fair-goers stepping into “Il Mercatino di Iwa” in the courtyard of the historic PMQ building in Central on November 14 were greeted in typical Italian fashion with hugs and cheek kisses by volunteers in eye-catching red masks embroidered with tiny versions of the country’s tricolour flag.
Lovers of all things Italian then had their pick of a broad selection of deeply discounted clothing, sunglasses, accessories, shoes, home appliances, make-up and stationery – all made and donated to the association by Italian companies.
“People come to the fair because we are selling good products at a much more reasonable price compared to what you can get from a market outside,” said Anna Waung, the founder of IWA.
The charity event has been held for over 37 years, and supports groups providing assistance to women, children, refugees and the homeless.
