Hong Kong’s annual fundraiser, Operation Santa Claus (OSC), was officially launched on Tuesday with an aim of raising HK$11 million (US$1.41 million) this year to support 13 local charities’ projects benefiting children and youth, the elderly and individuals with disabilities and mental health challenges.

Under this year’s theme, “Building Bridges”, which calls for using the power of compassion to connect people and inspire collective action for a better community, the campaign will address critical issues such as poverty, health and well-being, education, inclusivity and sustainability.

The campaign aims to bring care and hope to communities in need, said the co-founders and organisers Radio Television Hong Kong (RTHK) and the South China Morning Post at a launch ceremony held at the public broadcaster’s headquarters on Tuesday night.

RTHK’s radio controller, Angel Cheng Yuen-mei, said the theme could not be more fitting because “that’s exactly what this campaign has done for decades – building bridges of compassion, generosity and hope across the community”.

“We’ve helped connect those who want to give with those who need it most. We’ve told the stories – on air and in print – of resilience and of transformation,” Cheng said.

“As Hong Kong’s leading English-language media outlets, we have the privilege and ability to be able to do this. In many ways, we are the bridges too – linking hearts, amplifying needs and inspiring action.”