Mainland immigrants to Hong Kong could benefit from the assistance of local people, says Edward Lam Chun-kit of Ying Wa College who is organising a project to help young migrants. 'It doesn't take much for a person to lend a hand. All you need is some patience and time to listen to them. And perhaps give some tips and advice on life in Hong Kong,' he said. Edward participated in a similar project two years ago when he was in Form Four. 'I found the immigrants were lonely and needed someone to talk to.' His school's Interact Club is joining hands with Ying Wa Girls' School's Social Service Committee to organise the project 'Under The Same Rainbow' during the summer holiday. 'What we will do is go to a Temporary Housing Estate in Tsing Yi where a large number of new immigrants stay and hold activities for them,' he told Young Post. Run between August 1 and 16, the programme includes a fun fair, quiz, company visits, outings to country parks, olympic-style games, talent shows and tutorials. 'They can be helped to become familiar with Hong Kong by introducing some current affairs to them through quiz, drama and games. 'The language barrier is a common problem they meet. They're afraid to talk to people and they feel inferior. We have to help them build up their confidence.' Most children of immigrants find it hard to catch up with the school syllabus in Hong Kong. Securing a school place is arduous enough for them and they often have to study in classes one of two years lower than their level in China. 'This is making life much more difficult for them so we want to have tutorial classes to help them catch up with their studies.' Around 50 students above Form Three level from the two schools will be helping in the programme. By encouraging more young people to help, it is hoped that the message of concern for newly arrived youngsters would spread throughout Hong Kong so more help will be offered when necessary. The project's opening ceremony will take place on August 1 at the Community Hall at Cheung Hang Estate. About 100 children are expected to participate.
