Press Releases

Enthusiastic response to Community Investment and Inclusion Fund

The Community Investment and Inclusion Fund (CIIF) has received over 200 proposals from a variety of community groups, neighbourhood organisations, welfare non-governmental organisations and service organisations by the closing date of October 4 for the first batch of applications for the fund.

Speaking on the closing of the application period, a spokesman for the Health, Welfare and Food Bureau said today (October 7) that the level of enthusiastic responses to the $300 million-Fund had been encouraging since it was launched in August.

The spokesman noted the proposals contained a variety of local responses, innovative ideas and cross-sectoral efforts with potentials to develop social capital in their respective communities.

"It is encouraging that more community groups have indicated that, instead of rushing to meet the first submission deadline, they will take the next couple of months to consult with other groups and develop partnerships before they firm up with their proposals.

"Others will be making use of the expert advice or mentoring help of the CIIF Partners who have volunteered their services as part of their contributions to develop social capital."

Noting that the development of social capital was a relatively new and challenging idea, the spokesman said: "The purpose of the Fund is different from other Government subventions designated for specific well-defined services.

"Each community has the opportunity to design ways most appropriate and effective for them to strengthen their social networks, enhance the nature of their relations, extend the level of social cohesion, increase their ability to help themselves and support others in need, promote common good that will result in increased social capital for their communities.

"Social capital will be formed gradually, as experience is gained from each project. Sharing workshop and community forum will be organised so that good practices and experience can be shared."

The CIIF Secretariat and CIIF Committee will process the proposals in two to three batches a year, over the next three years. Information on the approved projects will be posted onto the CIIF web site at http://www.hwfb.gov.hk/ciif/index.htm

Monday, October 7, 2002