Undoubtedly, language barrier is one of the greatest challenges that hinder South Asians' adjustment in Hong Kong society. Due to the inability to communicate in Cantonese as well as English, it is neither easy for them to relate to local Chinese counterparts; nor trouble-free for them to access necessary community information and resources such as medical help, financial assistance, housing and employment services. Consequently, South Asians have become marginalized from society and are more socially underprivileged.

Although it is encouraging to see that the Government has given more assistance to facilitate South Asians' adjustment in Hong Kong, special concern has never been placed on targeting South Asians' need for tangible interpretation help in accessing essential social services.

In response to the current service limitation, "Project LINK", supported by our Agency Development Fund, was launched in September 2006. The Project aims at providing hotline enquiry, on-site interpretation and written translation support to South Asians in need as well as fortifying service providers of NGOs and Government departments in serving South Asians. In addition, "Project LINK" also intends to enhance South Asians' knowledge on community resources and public policies through operation of information booths in areas where the majority of South Asians reside, organization of workshops and community visits plus operation of a drop-in information corner so as to facilitate South Asians' inclusion in Hong Kong society.

For those who are in need of services provided by "Project LINK", please feel free to call our hotline at 6172-6774.