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A study conducted by a social organization in Hong Kong noted that the government is not doing enough in poverty alleviation. Many low income citizens are still in desperate need to improve their livelihood.
Concerning CSSA and Low Income Alliance, an organization aiming at assisting the lower class of the society, found that 87 pct of the respondents felt dissatisfied over the government underperformance in comprehensive social security assistance.
90 pct citizens suggested that the government's poverty alleviation scheme lacks of long-term orientations and flexible poverty-assistance criterion. Over 80 pct pointed out that certain groups of low-income families are overlooked in the government subsidy, like those with the elderly and the disabled.
Lee Tai Shing, the Chief Community Organizer, urged the government to immediately implement comprehensive subsidy for low-income residents and to build new public housing estates to satisfy the long overdue demand.
The organizers compare the low-income families as sitting on a stool, insist that "basic protection for living" is a necessary "pillar" for citizens to enjoy a secure and stable life, Jan.3rd, 2014. (Xinhua/ Shi Hui)
For those who are employed but remain under poverty, Lee suggested the improvement of employees’ protection and compensation, such as raising the statutory minimum wage in the city, which possibly will increase to HK$32 per hour.
The research was conducted in December 2013 and covered 203 grassroots citizens in total from different regions in Hong Kong, including Sham Shui Po, Sheung Shui and Tin Shui Wai etc.
74-year-old Kuen, lives on the old age living allowance of 2200 HK dollars per month granted by the government, plus several hundred dollars from his children. He said he could barely make the ends meet, as his monthly rental cost was a big 2600 HK dollars, taking up most of his income. He had no choice but to do everything he could to save on his food, as he is not fit enough to take up a new job anymore. He said he hopes the government to further increase housing supply, and raise old age living allowance in the upcoming policy address.
