This article from Befrienders International provides historical development of suicide prevention activities of The Samaritans in Hong Kong, reports on particular needs of the elderly & youth as Hong Kong moves closer to the 1997 transition to Communist rule, notes progress by China in recognizing the urgent need to offer support for those who are distressed & suicidal, reports on the development & progress of a 4-year plan to extend the services of The Samaritans in Hong Kong & China.