Hong Kong volunteers deliver emergency supplies and counselling after fire kills 94, with government and corporate donors pledging millions in support.
HONG KONG: Hundreds of volunteers are rushing emergency supplies to victims of Hong Kong’s deadliest fire in nearly 80 years.
The blaze engulfed the Wang Fuk Court housing complex in Tai Po, killing at least 94 people with scores still missing.
Volunteers have formed teams to collect donations and distribute items ranging from diapers to hot food.
They have also established free counselling services for traumatised survivors.
Across from the damaged complex, volunteers set up a sprawling support camp with blue and red marquees.
Hand-drawn maps on cardboard directed displaced residents to essential supplies including toiletries, bedding and clothing.
“This is real civil participation,” said 22-year-old volunteer coordinator Helena.
At Tai Po train station, another team collected donated pillows, socks, water bottles and rubbish bags.
These items were transported to shelters and a repurposed kindergarten serving as an aid centre.
Electric car worker Bosco Pang, 40, created a charging station for power banks using his vehicle.
“There are many volunteers helping out at the resources stations,” Pang explained.
Hong Kong residents also queued at blood donation centres to assist the severely injured.
Chief Executive John Lee announced a HK$300 million support fund for affected households.
Each household will receive emergency relief funds of HK$10,000.
China’s Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office coordinated with Guangdong province to send rescue equipment and medical supplies.
Dozens of business groups and charitable foundations pledged donations, including those of property tycoons Li Ka Shing and Lee Shau Kee.
Property companies Hang Lung and Shangri-la Group also contributed to relief efforts.
Chinese logistics firm SF Express offered all 146 stores as collection points for emergency resources.
Major Chinese companies including Xiaomi, Xpeng, Geely, Alibaba and Tencent announced substantial donations.
Chilean businessman Jean Salata’s family office pledged HK$10 million for trauma counselling and education assistance.
Hong Kong Airlines committed HK$10 million while providing logistics support and arranging relief flights.
“Hong Kong people must be united,” said 25-year-old volunteer Jason Lau while sorting supplies. – Reuters
