When the unimaginable happened in Tai Po two weeks ago, and flames engulfed Wang Fuk Court, many watched in shock from afar. For those who called this neighborhood home1 notably your author1 it hit differently. 🔥
The disaster claimed over 150 lives and displaced thousands in what became the deadliest fire in Hong Kong in decades.
The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government (HKSAR government) stepped forward quickly. On December 10, the HKSAR government announced each affected household will now receive an extra HK$100,000 (over $12,800) in special subsidies, on top of previously declared aid.
Here9s how the support is stacking up:
- Emergency cash: HK$10,000 for households who evacuated with only essentials.
- Living allowances: HK$50,000 per household.
- Compensation: HK$200,000 for families of those who tragically died.
More than 1,800 households registered in the first three days. Queues formed as residents lined up at community halls, navigating paperwork amidst trauma and uncertainty.
Rehousing kicked off with urgency: by December 11, 1,457 residents were placed in hostels, camps or hotels, and 2,796 found transitional housing through government and the Housing Society. 🏠 Two temporary shelters remain open to help those still in need.
As someone who walked past Wang Fuk Court daily in 20202021, I can’t imagine the fear of finding somewhere safe to sleep the first night. The swift organizationrooms ready within hoursmeant no one faced that fear alone. ❤️
The response highlights how practical aid and community care can light the path to recovery after tragedy.
Reference(s):
When tragedy struck, the Hong Kong government stepped forward
cgtn.com
