For Hong Kong guide dog trainer Margaret To*, an online mothers’ support group has provided a way to cope with rising prices.
Browsing regularly through the Lakesilver Moms chat group, she has found baby clothes, toys, shoes, furniture, home appliances and even a picnic cart. Most were second-hand, some practically new.
“They were all free. This has kept the expenses for our family of three to just under HK$5,000 [US$642] per month,” she said. “In return, I’ve also donated unused items to the group.”
To, 36, and her husband, who works in online marketing, became more careful about spending after their daughter was born 2½ years ago.
For a family stretching a monthly household income of about HK$60,000, every dollar saved mattered. A big chunk – HK$30,000 – went towards the mortgage for their flat in a private housing estate in Wu Kai Sha, northwest of Ma On Shan in the New Territories.
To joined another community group that organises bulk purchases from Japan, to take advantage of the weak yen, saving on cosmetics, food and other items. The group also sourced fruit at lower prices from the Yau Ma Tei fruit market.
“Things in Hong Kong are getting more expensive. We often eat out but restaurant prices have gone up by at least 20 per cent,” she grumbled.
