HSBC LIFE DONATES DISINFECTION AND STERILISATION EQUIPMENT TO ELDERLIES TO SUPPORT COVID-19 RELIEF

In response to the latest wave of COVID-19, HSBC Life is reinforcing its commitment to eldercare through partnering with the Hong Kong Lutheran Social Services (HKLSS) to donate disinfection and sterilisation equipment to the elderly who are currently residing in elderly rehabilitation and daycare centers, providing immediate and the much needed support to them at this critical period. 

With the surging of new cases, the risks of severe medical complications, and even death, from COVID-19 fall disproportionally on the elderly population. According to the latest statistics from Centre for Health Protection, the first 153 deaths recorded in the ongoing fifth wave, 90 of them, mostly elderly, were from care homes.  Meanwhile, 51 deaths were aged over 70 years old and 29 deaths were aged over 80. Currently, the healthcare system has already been put under immense pressure and to a point beyond their capacity. The role of community service units for the elderly has therefore become increasingly important particularly in reducing the risk of our elderly being exposed to COVID-19 as well as preventing cross infection within elderly centres. 

Under the partnership with HKLSS, the donation in kind from HSBC Life is expected to benefit 12,000 beneficiaries, including but not limited to all 30 elderly rehabilitation and daycare centers under HKLSS’s network. The donation will be used to purchase air purifiers, UV disinfection machines, protective equipment for employees of these facilities as well as protective gear for caregivers.

Edward Moncreiffe, Chief Executive Officer, Hong Kong, HSBC Life, said, “ As a Hong Kong insurer with a strong commitment to eldercare, we hope to echo the latest COVID-19 relief efforts of the HongKong Bank Foundation by extending a helping hand to senior citizens at this critical time. Thanks to our long term partner – the Hong Kong Lutheran Social Services, who provides practical advice on what is most needed at the moment particularly those who may have been overlooked. Their swift response in community action also enables us to directly reach out to those in need in a timely manner.” 

On Monday, The Hongkong Bank Foundation announced a donation of HKD100 million to help those that are most in need. On the global front, HSBC announced in March 2020 a USD25 million (HKD195 million) COVID-19 donation fund to support the international medical response, protect vulnerable people and ensure food security around the world.