HONG KONG — Following the devastating fire at Tai Po’s Wang Fuk Court residential complex that tragically claimed 159 lives, a massive coordinated relief effort is underway to provide essential shelter and long-term support for the displaced residents. Local government and philanthropic organizations have mobilized rapidly, concentrating initial efforts on temporary housing and financial support while preparing for the prolonged psychological and medical recovery required by the survivors.
One of the city’s largest charities, the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals (TWGHs), has emerged as a central pillar in the aid response. The organization has successfully raised over HK$150 million specifically for the Wang Fuk Court victims, distributing immediate financial assistance of HK$1,000 to more than 1,700 affected households. Beyond emergency funds, TWGHs has dedicated substantial resources to ensure medium- to long-term needs, including mental health counseling and medical provisions, are met.
Temporary Housing Solutions Prioritize Families and Elders
Many survivors are currently residing in transitional housing facilities and four TWGHs youth hostels adapted for temporary occupancy. A notable concentration, 102 individuals, are housed at the Nam Cheong Hui youth hostel in Sham Shui Po. The demographic profile of the displaced highlights the strain on social services: roughly 60% of those accommodated are elderly, and the group also includes two infants.
Recognizing that many victims are families of two to four people, TWGHs staff have strategically allocated two-bedroom units, equipped with four beds, to keep family units intact during this traumatic period.
“We immediately sourced cots for the infants,” said Ms. Cheng Man-kwong, who oversees the Nam Cheong Hui project. She noted that catering to the elderly population has been a priority. “Many of our seniors are unfamiliar with this neighborhood. We have generous donors providing cooked meals and soup daily, which residents can collect at a supply station and simply reheat at home.”
The community has also participated actively, donating essential supplies, appliances, and personal care items to help residents navigate the temporary living arrangements.
Economic and Emotional Recovery a Long Haul
While immediate shelter has been secured, the chief administrator of TWGHs, Mr. Alex So, emphasized that long-term recovery must encompass economic aid for rebuilding, specialized medical care, and continuous support for children’s education. Furthermore, the psychological toll on survivors, especially the elderly, remains a critical concern.
“The most direct assistance will be economic support for rebuilding their homes,” Mr. So stated. “But we must also consider their medical requirements and the educational needs of the children.”
He elaborated on the profound emotional burden carried by residents, many of whom, particularly the older generation, feel compelled to constantly revisit the site of their former homes.
“When people repeatedly engage in that kind of activity for an extended period, there is worry about lingering grief,” Mr. So observed. “Therefore, emotional and spiritual support will be something the sector must continue to provide for a considerable time.”
TWGHs continues to collaborate closely with the Social Welfare Department to ensure coordinated delivery of services tailored to individual needs.
Authorities have also moved to address broader safety issues following the disaster. Chief Executive John Lee has announced that the Legislative Council will discuss further support mechanisms for the victims. Meanwhile, Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun has indicated that legislation limiting smoking on construction sites may be amended following the tragedy. The disaster relief fund has reportedly grown to HK$3 billion, processing hundreds of aid applications, underscoring the scale of need in the wake of the devastating blaze.
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