In 2007, HAC got generous sponsorship from Mattel Asia Pacific Sourcing Limited for the "Toys for our Joy" project. In 2008, with the support from the Partnership Fund for the Disadvantaged by the government, the second phrase of this project was launched. We believe that through various creative playing methods, parent-child relationships can be enhanced. A related programme, "Toys' Angel" was also introduced this year, helping children to establish their own support network through "play and games".

"Toys for Our Joy" Project

Through games, children can easily express their feeling. Toys for Our Joy Project was organised by trained parents, who volunteered their time and effort in designing creative and popular learning games. Daily household utensils can also be used in games. It is our hope that parents find it feasible to play and share anywhere, anytime with their children.

Ms. Wong Yuk Lan, one of the trained parents, said, "I wish to help people through play and games. After spending a day with groups of parents and children who join the programme, I found most of them enjoyed the games we designed, it was really rewarding."

Progress of the Project

In October and November 2008, over 200 people times from Sham Shui Po and Tuen Mun districts joined this project. In December 2008, people from Lam Tin districts also benefited from this meaningful project. The new book release and a complimentary ceremony will be conducted in February 2009. Special thanks to all volunteer parents in this project.

Parent's sharing: this project reminded us that many things in our home can be used for playing games with children.	Child's sharing: In a game, I had to found my mother's hand behind a big cloth. In that particular moment, I was really afraid that I couldn't find her. Luckily, I recognised the birthmark on her hand. When the staff removed the cloth, I was so glad that my mum was standing in front of me and we hugged each other with joy!
Where is mum/ dad?	Keep the ball rolling!

"Toy's Angel" Project

With the training given by a drama teacher and a professional social worker, we hope to connect children from different backgrounds and to establish a support network among them. Older children will become the "Angels" of those younger "buddies".

All of them will learn and play together.
Janet Lee, aged 12, an "Angel" of the project, said "the drama teacher taught us that without "failure" in life, we will never learn what is going wrong in our lives. I think this is a very good insight for me and I shall share this motto to my "buddy". Joining this project enable myself to make friends with children of different backgrounds, I enjoy the time learn and playing with them. In the process, I also recognised that I have grown up and am able to help others, that was a really happy feeling."

Project Progress

By the end of 2008, 40 "angles" were successfully trained. In February 2009, "Toys' Angel for the kids' Campaign" will be launched.

Children use drama techniques to express their feelings.	Toy's Angels concentrate in a workshop
Ms. Gloria Yu, Director of Soft Goods Development (left) and Ms. May Wong, Executive Director of HAC, support in both projects.