Padded coats, thick boots, scarves, earmuffs and gloves are already being handed out to hundreds of children in some of China's coldest regions, after the launch of a major fundraising initiative during Chinese Lunar New Year.

Organized by One Foundation, founded by actor and martial artist Jet Li, with support from Ant Financial Services Group, an Internet finance affiliate of Alibaba Group Holding Ltd, and the Tencent Foundation, "Sowing Sun at New Year" was kick-started on February 5.

"Sowing Sun" is a popular Chinese children's song with positive lyrics which convey warmth, brightness and happiness.