Operated by NGO Caritas, HUB13 in To Kwa Wan has a halal kitchen, gym and social activities that complements similar government-led spaces
In the old but bustling Hong Kong neighbourhood of To Kwa Wan, a small community living room with a dedicated halal kitchen offers a vital sanctuary for Muslim residents like Azmat Tariq.
The 2,000 square feet (186 square metres) space on Pau Chung Street called HUB13 is where the Pakistani homemaker, who lives with her husband and three children in a tenement building with no elevator, can take a rare moment of respite. There, Azmat gathers with others from the neighbourhood, acquires knowledge about health management, and seeks help for the problems she faces.
“I felt hesitant and shy about sharing anything with others before… I was always busy at home and had no time to go outside and make friends,” the 48-year-old said.
“But in HUB13, for one day each week, different ethnic minority families come here. We make food and just chit chat, sharing our feelings… I feel relaxed here and more confident.”
