It is my great honour to present the 23rd Annual Report of MentalCare Connect Company Limited, marking another year of active progress in endowing disadvantaged group with fulfilling our social enterprise mission.

The year 2024–2025 has brought considerable economic headwinds to Hong Kong, with declining business activity across multiple sectors. The continuing shift in consumer behavior particularly the trend of cross-border shopping and increased online purchases from Mainland China has further intensified competition, posing significant challenges to local retail operations. As a company largely reliant on retail business, these changes present both operational and strategic hurdles. We anticipate the need for navigating this evolving landscape through greater adaptability, innovation and collaboration, while remaining steadfast in our commitment to create inclusive employment and social impact.

In 2024–2025, the Company achieved an annual revenue of HK$218 million and created over 260 employment opportunities—67% of which were filled by people with disabilities and members of disadvantaged communities. These figures reflect not only financial growth but also our unwavering dedication to social inclusion. As of this year, we operate 39 social enterprise projects.

Since our inception, we have provided employment to 3,773 individuals, including 2,732 from disadvantaged backgrounds. Our accumulated revenue has reached HK$2.18 billion, supported by HK$33.77 million in government seed funding.

Beyond business metrics, "MentalCare Connect" also extended its social influence across different fields. The "Rehab Express" magazine has reached 2.29 million readers across 105 issues and contributed HK$1.82 million to charitable causes. We have responsibly procured HK$3.9 million worth of products from fellow social enterprises and sheltered workshops, and our efforts have helped reduce social costs by an estimated HK$123 million. To date, we have disbursed HK$147 million in salaries to disadvantaged employees, and in the past year alone, we provided 419 placement opportunities to persons with disabilities.

The achievement of these milestones witnessed the dedication of our staff, the trust of our partners, and the support of our stakeholders. On behalf of the Board, I extend heartfelt thanks to the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau, Social Welfare Department, Hospital Authority, suppliers, honorary advisors, and all who have stood by us. I also wish to acknowledge Mr. Chung Wai Shing and his team for their tireless efforts, and my fellow Board members for their wisdom and steadfast support.

As we look ahead, we remain committed to expanding our impact, deepening our collaborations, and championing the values of dignity, inclusion, and seizing opportunity for all.