The ministry of the Shatin Plus group.

1. Shatin House of Refuge Community Hope Haven www.shatinplus.blogspot.com

2. Who are Asylum Seekers? The UN refugee agency (UNHCR) stated that in April 2006 there were 1473 asylum seekers in Hong Kong. These asylum seekers leave their country due to persecution and flee to Hong Kong where they await resettlement in a third country. Asylum seekers face many hardships in Hong Kong because they are prohibited from working. The application process to another country can take several years. During those years of waiting even basic survival can be a challenge.

3. Galant and Johnny, cousins from the Congo currently living in the Shatin House of Refuge

4. Hope in Shatin High on the 28th floor of Garden Rivera apartment, in the humble 365 square foot apartment hope can be found for refugees while in Hong Kong. Hope comes not only in the form of physical shelter, but also through the involvement of the family– like community of the PLUS group in Shatin. The PLUS group is an extension of the Vine Christian Fellowship in HK and seeks to share the love of Jesus with the House of Refuge residents through fellowship, English lessons, prayer, and practical support.

5. My help comes from you! The view from the House of Refuge window reveals the Shatin cross nestled in the hills. We pray as asylum seekers come through the house that they wil be reminded of Psalm 121, “ I lift my eyes to the hills- where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth .”

6. How can I help? We are looking for partners to help provide for the basic needs of the asylum seekers. This includes monthly rent and food. We need to raise HK $4200 ($550 US) to cover the living expenses and an additional $800 ($100 US) for food is needed. If you live in HK and would like to volunteer your time the guys would like to develop their english skills, learn to cook, or simply develop a friendship. Please email Jason and Christine at [email_address]