Helping and serving others is the foundation of happiness. Themed as “Spread some Joy this Christmas”, Operation Santa Claus, the annual fundraising event jointly organised by Radio Television Hong Kong (RTHK) Radio 3 and the South China Morning Post (SCMP), has raised more than HK$17 million for 13 charity projects this year.

Guests at the closing ceremony, held at Crown Wine Cellars in Shouson Hill, were entertained by band leader Colin Aitchison and the China Coast Jazzmen. And 13-year-old award-winning local singer Elizabeth Stewart was also on stage to help fill the occasion with warmth. Officiating guests, Director of Broadcasting LEUNG Ka-wing and Chief Executive Officer of South China Morning Post Gary LIU then revealed the total raised -- HK$17,096,327 -- on a specially made extended scroll. They expressed heartfelt thanks for the generous support from individuals, schools, groups of workmates and corporate donors over the past two months.

Among the supporters who made this year such a success, several received special awards during the ceremony. Top School Fundraiser went to Discovery Mind School, while Shung Tak Catholic English College was awarded Most Creative School Fundraiser. This year’s Top Corporate Fundraiser was Morgan Stanley, and Swire Properties was recognized as Most Creative Corporate Fundraiser.