The School Care Subsidy Scheme 2016-17 is now accepting applications. The deadline for applications is January 25 next year.
 
     Organised by the Music Office of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department, the scheme aims to encourage music groups from local kindergartens as well as primary, secondary and special schools and tertiary institutions to hold free music activities for the beneficiaries of registered social welfare organisations in Hong Kong. It is hoped that students will share their good wishes and friendship with the underprivileged through music performances, and thereby enhance social integration and harmony. In addition, students can gain performing experience and serve the community, as well as benefit by building up team spirit and organisational skills through the activities.
 
     Each activity can receive a maximum subsidy of $2,000 to cover costs including transportation, allowances for professionals and other miscellaneous items for each performance at a social welfare organisation.
 
     Successful applicants must complete their performances on or before May 31 next year. Outstanding teams will be invited to perform and share their experiences at the Gala Concert to be held in between July and August. All participating schools will be awarded certificates of commendation at a presentation ceremony during the gala concert.
 
     Applications will be evaluated according to the proposed activity's feasibility, ingenuity and interactive elements, as well as the music group's prior experience in organising and performing at events for the underprivileged. The Music Office will notify applicants of their application numbers by fax within two working days upon receipt of their applications. Applicants who have not received the acknowledgement of application by then should contact the Music Office to ensure that their applications have been successfully submitted.
 
     Application forms are now available at all music centres of the Music Office or downloadable from the website: www.lcsd.gov.hk/en/mo/activities/communityprogrammes/2016_17schoolcaresubsidyscheme.html. Completed forms must be faxed to the Music Office at 2824 1989.
 
     Over 200 schools have participated in the School Care Subsidy Scheme since it was launched in 2009. The scheme is sponsored by the Sino Group.
 
     For enquiries, please call 2596 0898 or 2582 5264.

Ends/Thursday, December 29, 2016
Issued at HKT 17:13

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