IKEA Hong Kong’s ‘Light Up Hope’ programme aims to reduce energy poverty and improve the quality of life for children and families living in inadequate housing. In partnership with Caritas Hong Kong, we have launched a broad range of initiatives, including practical support, outreach programmes and educational workshops on energy conservation for families in need under the programme.

Living in inadequate housing causes numerous life challenges. Properties are often run-down, crowded and equipped with old, energy-consuming appliances, resulting in higher energy bills, especially in hot weather. With limited space to move around at home, children often do homework and play under poor lighting and uncomfortable conditions.

During 2023, the programme’s scope included donating energy-efficient household items such as LED light bulbs, reading lamps, and cooling bedding, to disadvantaged families. The items improve their quality of life by lowering energy costs, relieving discomfort in hot weather, and creating a more conducive environment for children to study and play. By reaching out to beneficiaries through two Caritas community centres, these practical measures have helped 40 families in Tsuen Wan and Ngau Tau Kok.

In addition, IKEA Hong Kong worked with Caritas and other organisations to offer educational workshops to more than 40 families living in inadequate housing. These workshops provided tips on daily energy-saving and methods of reducing electricity consumption, as well as advice on eye protection.

IKEA team members and Caritas will also offer community education to schools on the impact of climate change, energy conservation and the importance of eye protection in 2024. It is expected more than 40 primary school students will join workshops to learn more about the challenges that people living in inadequate housing in the community face.

Meanwhile, IKEA Taiwan addressed the needs of children and families facing financial challenges and economic instability. This initiative also extends to remote rural elementary schools with limited resources.

IKEA Taiwan’s ‘Light Up Hope’ programme also aimed to alleviate energy poverty. The initiative included providing economically disadvantaged families with energy-efficient appliances and LED bulbs that can help reduce electricity bills in Taiwan’s hot summers and cold winters.

We will also supply educational equipment, and volunteers will help make home improvements and boost energy awareness to help households devise appropriate and effective energy-saving solutions. More broadly, IKEA Taiwan will promote sustainable energy education to the public.