During the Thanksgiving Tea Gathering, a short video themed 'Connecting Smiles, Empowering Lives' was presented, showcasing how SJS has gone the extra mile over the past 75 years to assist those in need within society. The Most Revd. Andrew Chan, the President of St. James' Settlement, remarked on the organisation's history, stating, ‘God, through the Rt. Rev. Bishop R.O. Hall of the Anglican Church, and numerous philanthropic individuals, sowed a seed of goodness by establishing a club for boys and girls in a temple in Wanchai. Initially focusing on poverty alleviation services and children's work, the club addressed a pressing societal need at that time. This initiative has now evolved into St. James' Settlement, a multi social service agency with over 180 service units and 114 service points located across Hong Kong, serving 3.5 million individuals annually. Over the years, SJS has also played the role of a connector, linking various stakeholders and resources to bring about change for service users and the industry, continuously spreading the good seed to benefit more individuals in need.’ He also expressed gratitude to all stakeholders for their recognition, support, and encouragement, which drives SJS to move forward.
 

The gathering continued with a five-person hand-holding sharing by senior staff of SJS, which portrayed the organisation's logo. The sharing was about the story of the organisation, and our staff emphasised how life influences life, always going the extra mile and creating infinite possibilities. The journey over the past 75 years has relied on the support of passionate individuals, organisations, and the SAR government, alongside the spirit of ‘going the extra mile’ embodied by all staff, leading to the new slogan ‘Connecting Smiles, Empowering Lives.’
 

Subsequently, members of the Executive Committee presented the organisation's visions across four key areas: precise poverty alleviation, mental health, primary healthcare, and innovative technology. The officiating guests were invited to officiate the lighting ceremony for a new decorative wall at the St. James' Settlement Jockey Club Social Services Building. The wall is filled with commitments and visions from the organisation's strategic leadership team and other colleagues towards services and service users.
 

Following the Thanksgiving Tea Gathering, guests were invited to visit four of our service units, allowing them to gain deeper insights and experiences in our various service areas, fostering collaborative ideas for creating more possibilities in future social welfare services.