ASIA/HONG KONG - Rice crisis: St. Vincent de Paul Society distributes 1,600 kg of rice to poor families of Hong Kong

Hong Kong (Agenzia Fides) - The Saint Vincent de Paul Society of Hong Kong is distributing 1,600 kg of rice to poor families, through its local parish associations. According to Kong Ko Bao (the Chinese version of the diocesan bulletin), since the cost of rice, an essential food for many families, began its constant rise on the market, many families in Hong Kong have had difficulties in finding something to satisfy their hunger. That is why the St. Vincent de Paul Society decided to lend a hand, through the distribution of free rice, to those most in need.
The St. Vincent de Paul Society of Hong Kong began July 12, 1863 and is part of the Association of Christian lay faithful, founded in Paris in 1833 by Blessed Federico Ozanam. Its mission is to help the poor, regardless of race, faith, or culture. It is now present in Hong Kong, in 25 local parish associations that work together to give witness to God’s love among the poor. (NZ) (Agenzia Fides 18/4/2008; righe 12, parole 166)