NWD joins hands with Microsoft and HKT to create "smart community” in transitional housing projects

New World Development announced on Tuesday to cooperate with four corporations and organizations to build the “smart community” in transitional housing projects to benefit over 10,000 low-income residents.

Microsoft Hong Kong, HKT, Chow Tai Fook Charity Foundation, and Pricerite are joining with NWD to create a platform that empowers and equips transitional housing residents with learning and skills at work. 

Under the four transitional housing projects with sites lent by New World, Microsoft Hong Kong, and HKT will jointly support the “innovation classroom” that targets children, working youth, elderly residents etc.

In addition to donating refurbished laptops and 2-in-1 PCs, Microsoft will also tailor STEM, artificial intelligence (AI), and other courses to meet the needs of underprivileged residents. Volunteers will be invited to provide on-site and online teaching assistance to support the residents’ learning needs. 

HKT will introduce its AI interactive robot and Now TV STEM learning pack to encourage students to learn about multiple subjects, including science, technology, engineering, mathematics, astronomy and arts. It will also offer free broadband and Wi-Fi services, as well as DrGo telemedicine consultation and same-day prescribed medication delivery services to support the residents.

Chow Tai Fook Charity Foundation will be donating HK$4 million to subsidize the purchase of household appliances and to set up the first emergency support units. The units will be reserved for applicants who are facing special circumstances, such as domestic violence, major life changes, or urgent housing needs for elderly couples or single elderly residents. 

The Foundation will also expand its community hub services, which provide shared spaces and various innovative services to support those in need, to transitional housing projects to foster community cohesion, build mutual support networks, and achieve targeted poverty alleviation.

Pricerite will set up a smart shopping wall and create a hybrid supermarket, combining online and offline shopping channels, to offer a wide range of household products, including electrical appliances, furniture, food and beverages. All delivery fees will be waived for those living in the designated transitional homes.