HK govt offers one-off allowance of $10k for new arrivals from low-income families

The Community Care Fund (CCF) is offering a one-off allowance of HK$10,000 to new arrivals from low-income families under the "One-off Allowance for New Arrivals from Low-income Families" scheme. The CCF Secretariat said that as of 5 p.m. of the first day (Sept. 27), a total of 3,300 applications had been received and the scheme was generally operating smoothly. From today (Sept. 28) until Dec. 31, applicants can apply online through the website of their bank agent or submit a written application form.

It is estimated that 203,000 eligible people will benefit from the scheme, involving a total of over HK$2.1 billion. Applications will be open in three phases based on different ages, and applicants must be aged 18 or above by March 31, 2021, and have entered Hong Kong for settlement on one-way permits for less than seven years, and pass a means test.

For details of the scheme, citizens may refer to the Fund's website (www.communitycarefund.hk) or call the correspondent bank's enquiry hotline at 3988 1810.