Operation Santa Claus: International College Hong Kong spreads the Christmas spirit, raises funds for a meaningful cause
- Students at International College Hong Kong proactively raised funds for charity with Candy Grams and a Christmas carnival
- All proceeds from the activities went to Operation Santa Claus, the annual charity fundraising drive organised by the South China Morning Post and RTHK
Students and staff at International College Hong Kong have helped to spread the Christmas spirit. Photo: HandoutAt International College Hong Kong (ICHK), the joyous spirit of Christmas united students and teachers in a heartwarming festive campaign that brought fun and meaning to the celebration while raising funds for charity.
ICHK has played a significant role in supporting Operation Santa Claus (OSC), the annual charity fundraising drive organised by the South China Morning Post and public broadcaster RTHK, since 2017.
One of the festive campaigns organised by the Student Representative Council (SRC) at ICHK this year was the highly popular Candy Gram. This fundraising activity, held almost every year leading up to Christmas, has become a cherished tradition at the school.
It allows students to express appreciation for their schoolmates and teachers by writing heartfelt messages on Christmas cards. These cards, adorned with candy canes, are available for HK$5. After students draft their cards, they are delivered to the recipients by student council members. This beautiful gesture brings great joy and fosters connection among the students, contributing to an uplifting school environment.
Phoebe Wong, tutor of the SRC, explained, “The objective of this event was to spread the Christmas spirit and connect students from all forms. It was heartwarming to see students writing each other heartfelt messages.”
Oliver Wong, a Year 12 student and president of the Student Council, expressed his gratitude for the custom: “Candy Grams has been a cherished tradition for our school community since I joined in Year Seven, and I’m pleased to say that this tradition remains strong as my high school journey nears its end,” said Oliver.
Operation Santa Claus: Teaching Hong Kong children how to give back to those in need
ICHK’s commitment to supporting Operation Santa Claus extended beyond the two-week Candy Grams campaign. The school also organised a lively Christmas Fair in mid-December, showcasing students’ musical talents, featuring exciting game booths, and hosting a lucky draw to raise funds for OSC.
While the carnival proved to be a day of laughter and fun for the school community, it also served as a useful reminder of the true meaning of Christmas.
As ICHK continues to embrace the spirit of the holiday, its unwavering contribution to OSC makes a lasting impact on the lives of those in need. Such initiatives play a vital role in shaping the character of young people, nurturing compassion, and instilling a sense of responsibility towards the community.
Leo Birnbaum, a Year 10 student and the fundraising events’ coordinator, emphasised the significance of these activities, explaining, “Whether it is making blankets or providing food for the less fortunate, these initiatives help the needy and provide them with comfort.”
Since 1988, Operation Santa Claus has raised HK$369 million to support the Hong Kong community through 338 charitable projects. There are 15 charitable projects of worthy causes being funded by OSC this year, including initiatives aimed at combating hunger, educational organisations and those benefiting the city’s elderly residents.
For more information on this year’s beneficiaries, please click here.