Creating a second home for residents of Hong Kong’s subdivided flats
A proper kitchen, a washing machine and a table where children can do their homework – these are some of the bare necessities that people expect for their homes. But for many families living in subdivided flats in Hong Kong, that is unfortunately not the reality. People in subdivided flats – dwellings created by dividing an existing flat into several smaller units, usually around 50 to 100 sq ft…
The Hong Kong government has launched the Community Living Room programme to address the housing challenges faced by families living in subdivided flats. These flats, created by dividing existing dwellings into smaller units, often leave residents with cramped living spaces that include a single room for sleeping and storage, a tiny kitchen, and limited bathroom facilities.
To help alleviate these issues, the programme aims to provide additional living space and opportunities for residents to socialize with their neighbors. Each Community Living Room includes communal areas, a shared kitchen, self-service laundry facilities, and designated study areas for children. Social workers are also present to assist residents in accessing necessary government and community resources.
DBS Foundation, the charitable arm of Singapore-based DBS Bank, co-funded a Community Living Room in Yau Ma Tei, a district with a high concentration of subdivided flats. The initiative is managed by the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals. Jelly Chan, the supervisor of the Yau Ma Tei Community Living Room, explains that the area is home to many subdivided flats, and the goal is to serve these residents and attract them to the facility for relaxation and other activities.
The new Community Living Room features a proper kitchen, bathrooms with shower facilities, laundry rooms equipped with washing and drying machines, a play area for younger children, a youth recreation space, and a health education area. It also caters to specific needs, such as a halal kitchen for Muslim residents, to ensure that their religious requirements are met.
One resident, Lily Chi, shares her positive experience with the Community Living Room, highlighting how it addresses issues like hot kitchens and limited hot water supply. Another resident, Casniti, an Indonesian who has lived in Hong Kong for 11 years, appreciates the social interaction opportunities provided by the space, noting the positive impact it has had on her and her young son.
Since its opening in January, the Yau Ma Tei Community Living Room has attracted over 600 residents. DBS Foundation's mission is to improve the quality of life for the less fortunate and build economic resilience, reflected in the workshops held at the Community Living Room. These workshops provide financial management tips to community members and encourage financial literacy.
As of now, DBS Bank and Foundation have invested HK$165 million (US$21 million) in charitable programs and social enterprises that have benefited around 460,000 people, with DBS employees contributing around 260,000 hours of volunteer work.
Written by urgent.news from South China Morning Post - Hong Kong's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
