Hundreds of volunteers in Hong Kong are working tirelessly to provide emergency aid to victims of the city’s deadliest fire in nearly 80 years. From delivering hot meals and diapers to offering free counselling, the community has come together in an unprecedented display of solidarity.
Emergency crews continued searching on Friday for survivors and victims, as dozens remain missing after a massive fire tore through the Wang Fuk Court housing complex in Tai Po, claiming at least 94 lives.
In response, volunteers formed teams to collect donations, organise transport, and distribute supplies. Many have been working day and night, helping those displaced by the tragedy. Across from the damaged complex, a large support camp has been set up near a shopping mall, with blue and red marquees providing essentials like toiletries, bedding, clothing, and even pet supplies. Hand-drawn cardboard maps guide residents to the resources they need.
“This is real civil participation,” said 22-year-old Helena, a volunteer coordinator who gave only her first name.
At Tai Po train station, volunteers have also created a resource collection hub, where donated items such as pillows, socks, water bottles, and rubbish bags are gathered before being delivered to shelters and a kindergarten repurposed as a temporary aid center.
“There are many volunteers helping out at the resource stations. That’s why we came up with this idea. We are helping them to charge power banks,” said Bosco Pang, 40, who works at BYD. Pang set up a charging station at the back of his car to help people stay connected.
Residents have also lined up at blood donation centers to help those severely injured.
Government and Corporate Support
Hong Kong leader John Lee announced a HK$300-million (RM159 million) support fund for affected residents, providing HK$10,000 to each household. China’s Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office coordinated with Guangdong province to deliver rescue equipment and medical supplies swiftly.
Dozens of businesses and charitable foundations have also pledged donations, including property tycoons Li Ka Shing, Lee Shau Kee, and companies like Hang Lung and Shangri-La Group. Logistics giant SF Express offered to transport emergency supplies free of charge from collection points. Major Chinese corporations such as Xiaomi, Xpeng, Geely, and foundations associated with Alibaba and Tencent also contributed.
Central Cove, the family office of Chilean businessman Jean Salata, donated HK$10 million for trauma and counselling, education support for displaced children, and financial relief for families. Hong Kong Airlines pledged HK$10 million in aid, along with logistics support to deliver essential supplies.
“Hong Kong people must be united,” said 25-year-old volunteer Jason Lau. “I felt I had to help out… as many people as I can.”
This tragedy has highlighted not only the scale of the disaster but the extraordinary spirit of community and compassion, showing how ordinary people can make a meaningful difference in times of crisis.
