New World Development offers free masks to 40,000 Hongkongers in dispensing programme

Several brands in Hong Kong have taken it upon themselves to source and produce face masks in order to help the city's underprivileged. New World Development has now launched its own mask dispensing programme, offering free masks to about 40,000 people in need.

New World Development has collaborated with 17 NGOs to deliver locally produced face masks at 37 designated centres across all 18 Hong Kong districts. Until mid-August and over ten consecutive weeks, the initiative will allow 40,000 pre-registered beneficiaries to collect a free pack of five face masks. 

The first phase of the dispenser programme commenced on 25 May, providing aid to about 12,000 existing beneficiaries served by eight NGOs. Until the end of July, beneficiaries can collect their NWD-produced masks from dispensers located at designated NGO centres.

The scheme is using a contactless method to deliver face masks. Registered recipients can visit a designated NGO centre every week during its opening hours and tap a smart redemption card on the dispenser to collect a pack of masks. It will then take a matter of seconds to scan a QR code to complete the redemption process. 

"Despite the recent easing of the COVID-19 pandemic, many health experts have warned that a second wave of coronavirus infections may occur later this year. After months of preparation, I am proud to launch the  dispensers with our NGO partners to support those in need in our community. The safety of these vulnerable families has to be the highest priority. And we will continue to do our part to support them until the virus is no longer present," said Adrian Cheng, CEO of New World Development. 

Related articles

A.S. Watson Group donates face masks to primary school students in Hong Kong

Hang Lung Properties to give Hongkongers locally designed face mask holders

Marco Polo Hotels Hong Kong produces 1,200 reusable masks in coronavirus CSR initiative