On March 19, 2021, the year 1 students of the Bachelor of Social Work Programme concluded their two-week, six-session charity sale in USJ, raising over MOP 4,600 for the Caritas Macau WelAnser Centre.

On March 19, 2021, the year 1 students of the Bachelor of Social Work Programme concluded their two-week, six-session charity sale in the University of Saint Joseph (USJ). The event was associated with Caritas Macau WelAnser Centre. The aim of the event was to improve the current living qualities of the non-Chinese community in Macau. 

The event started on March 8th at an open area outside the Residential Hall during peak hours and the open space of the Don Bosco Auditorium during lunch break. Mr. Wilson Tang, leader of the event, shared that the two-week six-session event had raised slightly over MOP4,600, which was enough to cover most items that WelAnser Centre needed the most. Tang thanked all the participating USJ students and staff, who were willing to donate items and money during the event. According to Ms. Natalia Ng, the deputy leader, the Office for Student and Alumni Affairs (OSAA) as well as the Technology and Facilities Office  (TFO) also provided generous assistance in supporting this event. Without the University’s support, the event would never be that successfully done. The Charity Sale provided a great opportunity for social work students to learn fundraising skills.

On their field visit to the WelAnser Centre on April 8, the students brought baby formula and other groceries purchased by the proceeds to the Centre Director. This activity was embedded in the module “Social Work Casework”. The students had in-depth discussions with the social workers at the Center about migrant workers’ difficulties in Macau, and how they provide the services.

Author: Benedict Lok (Year 1 BSW student)