Operation Santa Claus raises HK$19 million for Hong Kong fire victims, other causes

Hong Kong’s annual fundraiser, Operation Santa Claus (OSC), has wrapped up its campaign this year, raising more than HK$19 million (US$2.4 million) for charitable projects and victims of the Tai Po fire – nearly double its target.The campaign, launched on November 4, had aimed to raise at least HK$11 million for 13 charitable projects. However, fundraising intensified less than three weeks later, after the Tai Po fire broke out on November 26.An emergency appeal was launched to raise funds to help victims of the Wang Fuk Court blaze, which claimed 168 lives, injured 79 others and displaced nearly 5,000 people.At a closing ceremony at the social enterprise Museum Cafe 8 at Central Pier 8 on Tuesday, OSC’s organisers – RTHK and the South China Morning Post – thanked all sectors of society for their generous support. They said the citywide campaign each year strived to build a more inclusive and compassionate future for Hong Kong.“In times of urgent need and uncertainty, speed and unity are essential. Your quick responses and incredible resilience have shown that when our neighbours are struggling, this community truly steps up,” SCMP publisher Tammy Tam said.“We have seen the impact of turning compassion into action. Each one of you offered hope and support when it mattered most. And you demonstrated the powerful connections that bind us together. Your kindness helps to strengthen our community as a whole.”