Caritas Macau charity run raises MOP660,000

The Caritas Charity Run generated about MOP660,000 in support of the “Heart-to-Heart” social enterprise, according to secretary general Paul Pun.

The annual event, held yesterday, brought together more than 2,000 runners alongside 45 corporate and group teams.

Participants competed in several categories, including 10-kilometer, 5-kilometer, 1.6-kilometer inclusive, and online runs.

Proceeds from the fundraiser will be directed toward covering operating costs of the “Heart-to-Heart” service, launched in late 2024 to provide home care and health support for elderly residents.

Pun noted that part of the funds will also be used to subsidize seniors who are unable to afford the service.

In addition, proceeds will help finance non-subsidized social projects and contribute to the development of future elderly care facilities in Macau.

Meanwhile, Caritas Macau is preparing to expand services for residents with disabilities through the opening of a new rehabilitation center and improvements to transport support.

Pun previously announced that the Integrated Rehabilitation Service Center, located at Tong Kai Building in Zone A, is scheduled to open by the end of 2025.

The facility will provide 100 service slots, including 20 for temporary care, 40 for vocational training, and 40 for skill development programs.

Caritas has also extended its Chon Fai Rehabilitation Shuttle Bus service beyond wheelchair users to include people with moderate to severe disabilities.

Speaking to the press recently, Pun noted that demand has increased significantly, with some routes often reaching full capacity.

To address this, the mobile app will be enhanced to show the number of waiting passengers, while discussions with the government are underway to add a stop at Macao Union Hospital.

“For dialysis patients, transfers take time, so this remains a project worth supporting and coordinating. Specific timing will depend on discussions about fleet expansion and scheduling,” he said. Times Reporter