HONG KONG (SE): More than HK$1 million was raised on February 1 at the Run with Love – Friends of Caritas Charity Run, the first large-scale fundraising run in support of Caritas-Hong Kong’s social services. Held at the Hong Kong Science Park, the event brought together the community with a shared commitment to supporting the organisation’s work for the disadvantaged.
Organised by Friends of Caritas and co-hosted by the Chong Gene Hang College Athletic Club, the charity run featured races ranging from one to ten kilometres, catering to participants of different ages and fitness levels. The event attracted over 2,000 runners, with combined online and on-site donations exceeding HK$1 million on the day.
Friends of Caritas plans to make the charity run an annual event.
The official launch was attended by Paul Chan Mo-po, financial secretary of Hong Kong and former chairperson of Friends of Caritas, and Cardinal Stephen Chow, S.J.
In his address, Cardinal Stephen expressed his gratitude to the organisers, runners, sponsors and donors. Reflecting on the event’s theme, he spoke of love as the greatest commandment given by Jesus and one that Caritas lives out through its service to the disadvantaged. He highlighted Caritas-Hong Kong’s extensive network of around 270 service units operating across 150 locations in the city.
The cardinal was particularly pleased to see many families taking part in the one- and three-kilometre races with their children, expressing hope that the event would help pass on the spirit of generosity and kindness to the next generation. “Looking ahead, we anticipate that Caritas-Hong Kong will continue to work closely with the government and various sectors of society to build a community filled with love and hope for all, especially those who are most vulnerable,” he said. He concluded with a prayer and blessing for all present.
In his remarks, Chan shared three personal reflections drawn from his own running experience: the importance of setting clear goals, perseverance in the face of challenges, and mutual support within a team. “It is important that we support and accept one another with love, just as our society should function,” he said. With the Year of the Horse approaching, he wished all runners health and vitality.
The race officially began when Cardinal Stephen, the financial secretary, Father Joseph Yim Tak-lung, chief executive of Caritas Hong Kong, and Theresa Ng Choi-yuk, chairperson of Friends of Caritas, sounded their starter horns. Participants then ran along the Pak Shek Kok Promenade, enjoying panoramic views of Tolo Harbour.
The Diocesan Youth Commission grouped participants according to their running experience. Jason Wong, a member of the five-kilometre team race, shared that he had seen improvements in his running skills through coaching. Christian Fung, who was preparing for his first official race as part of the English-speaking team, said running was a way of expressing faith through perseverance.
Migrants from the Caritas Asian Migrant Workers Social Services Project also took part. Cynthia Labatos, an enthusiastic hiker, said she had trained with four other migrants under the guidance of a coach provided by Caritas. She was pleased to participate in the event to maintain her health and make new friends. The group discovered their potential together and plans to continue joining future races.
The five- and 10-kilometre races were officially recognised by the Hong Kong, China Association of Athletics Affiliates. Team categories included schools, corporations and running clubs, further fostering a sense of community.
Ng said running was chosen as a charity activity because of its popularity across age groups and backgrounds, as well as its symbolism of a positive, goal-oriented lifestyle—values that align closely with Caritas’ mission of love and hope.
She added that the event aimed to be a positive initiative for all Hong Kong residents and expressed her joy at seeing residents with intellectual disabilities from Caritas homes running alongside social workers.
Ng also thanked the generous donors and sponsors, adding that donations can be made even after the race day to encourage long-term community engagement.
Father Dominique Mukonda, deputy chief executive of Caritas-Hong Kong, also expressed heartfelt thanks to all supporters, emphasising their vital role in enabling Caritas to continue its mission of serving disadvantaged communities.
