Nearly two weeks after a devastating fire tore through Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po in late November, relief efforts are surging across the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region 🙏
The HKSAR government has set aside HK$5 million (about US$640,000) to support schools affected by the blaze. Starting mid-December, students from Tai Po Baptist Public School will be temporarily relocated to two nearby campuses, with classrooms arranged by grade 📚
As of 2 p.m. on Wednesday, the tragic toll stands at 159 residents confirmed dead, with 31 still missing, according to the Hong Kong Police Force. Identified victims range in age from 1 to 97 years old, highlighting the fire's wide-reaching impact.
Another 79 people were injured. Health Department secretary Lo Chung-mau reports that all patients are now out of danger: 30 remain hospitalized (six in serious condition, 24 stable) and 49 have been discharged 💖
Chief Executive John Lee has pledged ongoing psychological support for those affected and urged communities to keep coming together to help families rebuild their lives. Lee said assistance will not stop and relief operations will continue to scale up.
Beyond government aid, neighbourhood volunteers and regional partners have been pitching in with essentials, from meal deliveries to counseling services. The outpouring of solidarity shows how communities can unite in the face of tragedy 💪
Reference(s):
Hong Kong's Tai Po fire: Aid continues pouring, investigation underway
cgtn.com
