Hong Kong’s public housing residents are receiving Lunar New Year gifts from the Housing Authority, with many opting to receive cash in red packets, according to reports circulating online. The initiative, aimed at fostering a sense of community and belonging, has been met with enthusiasm, particularly among residents of On Tat Estate in Kowloon’s Kwun Tong district, where a cartoon-themed red packet design proved especially popular.
Posts on the “Public Housing Discussion Area – Hong Kong Facebook Group” show residents sharing images of the red packets they received, expressing gratitude for the gesture. One resident posted, “Thank you Housing Authority,” alongside a photo of the brightly colored packet. Comments on the post highlighted the appeal of the On Tat Estate design, with one user noting it was “cuter” than those received in other estates.
The Housing Authority confirmed the annual practice of providing funding to estates to organize community activities and festive events, including the purchase of calendars, red packets, and holiday decorations. A spokesperson stated that estate offices collect residents’ opinions through questionnaires to determine the year’s activities and festive arrangements.
According to the Housing Authority, residents of On Tat Estate were consulted last April regarding the use of estate funds, and in December, they participated in selecting the red packet design. The resulting packets were distributed in February and have been “well received” by residents.
The initiative extends to 180 of the Housing Authority’s 197 public housing estates this year, with residents having been consulted on the gifts. The remaining 17 estates either have recently completed construction with residents still undergoing renovations or are opting for alternative New Year decorations, such as spring couplets or calendars, based on resident feedback.
The Housing Authority stated it will continue to communicate with residents and organize events to enhance their well-being. The initiative aims to strengthen residents’ sense of belonging and community spirit within the estates.
