The World Children's Fund has a global mission to improve the lives of children with special needs. It has responded to its calling in Hong Kong by supporting Operation Santa Claus charities for the past three years. It contributed $100,000 to the campaign this year, helping bring the grand total to $4,250,891. 'While we are celebrating Christmas, there are actually many desperate children crying,' said Dr Joseph Lam, fund president and international director. The fund supports dozens of local and mainland charities, such as Mother's Choice, the Society for the Relief of Disabled Children, the China Disabled Persons' Federation and the Red Cross Society of China. This year's Operation Santa beneficiaries, Growing Together, help children and young adults with disabilities to acquire the skills and education to better integrate into mainstream society.