A recent charity food bazaar at DSC International School offered not only delicious treats but also an opportunity to foster compassion.
The International Food Fair, held on December 5, was part of a series of events organised by the school for the Operation Santa Claus School Fun4Funds Challenge.
The annual Operation Santa Claus (OSC) fundraising initiative has been hosted by the South China Morning Post and the public broadcaster RTHK since 1988.
DSC’s events raised about HK$200,000, marking the school’s 16th year of fundraising for OSC.
Grade 10 student Diya Kumar said these events heightened her awareness of others’ needs, especially after the deadly fire in Tai Po last month.
“For example, we had a fire recently, and we donated a lot of things,” she said.
The school community donated two truckloads of necessities to the victims within two days of the fire outbreak, according to Peony Shephard, vice principal of DSC’s elementary section. She saw fundraising as an integral part of holistic education that aligns with the school’s mission and social studies curriculum.
“Our philanthropic mission is to give back. In social studies, we do teach students about various responsibilities and roles in society. We also teach students about empathy through the lens of various historical events,” the vice-principal said.
That philosophy reflects OSC’s theme of “Building Bridges”, which calls for using compassion to inspire collective action for a better community.
The school’s fundraising events also connected students with other members of society.
The fair showcased 50 colourful stalls operated by DSC students, parents and staff, along with consulates from Poland, Thailand, Russia, Zimbabwe and Pakistan.
OSC, jointly established by the SCMP and public broadcaster RTHK in 1988, is committed to providing vital community support, particularly in times of disaster.
In addition to its annual fundraising drive, it is leading an emergency appeal to meet the specific needs of residents affected by the Tai Po fire. All proceeds will support this year’s 13 OSC‑funded charity projects and community partners involved in fire relief efforts.
Learn more about how to donate by visiting the OSC website.
