Editorial | Get into the spirit with Operation Santa Claus

Christmas may seem a long way off, especially with late storm signals in Hong Kong making it feel more like typhoon season. The festivities will, however, soon be upon us and they cannot come fast enough, lifting spirits and bringing traditional good cheer. The first lavish decorations appear in the city’s shopping malls this month. The lights and the Christmas trees will provide plenty of sparkle. Winterfest begins on November 22, with “Christmas Town” in West Kowloon featuring a variety of Yuletide attractions.

But while enjoying the celebrations, it is important to remember that Christmas is about more than merrymaking. It is a season of hope, goodwill and a time for giving.

Operation Santa Claus, organised by the South China Morning Post and public broadcaster RTHK, launched its 37th annual fundraising campaign this week, aiming to raise millions of dollars for those in need. This year, there are 11 beneficiaries, charities working to help the young, the old, those with physical disabilities, mental health needs and rare diseases. These organisations make a huge difference to people’s lives. The theme of the 2024 campaign, “Everyday Heroes”, is, therefore, apt. But they and those they help need all the support they can get. Look out for their compelling stories in the Post and RTHK over the festive period.

In the coming weeks, there will be a wide range of fundraising activities across the city. The campaign brings the community together, from schools and clubs to corporate donors, charities and the wider public. This year, an inaugural table tennis tournament will be held as well as the traditional five-a-side football and squash competitions. Teachers, pupils and parents will be encouraged to get involved in the Fun4Funds challenge, which will see fundraising events organised in schools, fostering a spirit of caring and kindness.

Operation Santa Claus began in 1988, raising HK$101,000 for a single charity, and has gone from strength to strength. Over the years it has raised a total of HK$383 million for 353 charity projects. The campaign depends on the energy, innovation and, above all, the generosity of Hong Kong people. It is the perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit and to remember that everyone can be a hero.