Hong Kong authorities and the community have mobilized substantial financial and logistical support for victims of the devastating No. 5 alarm fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, which claimed over 100 lives. As of midday Sunday, November 30, the dedicated relief fund had amassed approximately HK$1.2 billion, combining HK$900 million in public donations with an initial HK$300 million government injection. This capital is designated for sustained, long-term assistance to help impacted residents rebuild their homes and lives following the catastrophic incident earlier that week.
The government immediately activated various relief channels to provide urgent assistance. Emergency cash payments of HK$10,000 per affected household began on the evening of Thursday, November 27, the day after the disaster. Authorities reported that by 1 p.m. on Sunday, over 1,900 households had registered for aid, and 1,420 had already received the initial direct payout. Furthermore, financial support extends to the families of those lost; the government is granting a HK$200,000 condolence payment for each deceased victim. Starting this week, every affected household will also receive a HK$50,000 living allowance to help cover immediate costs.
Structuring Emergency Accommodation and Support
Addressing the immediate housing crisis, various departments collaborated to provide temporary shelter. Approximately 683 residents have been placed in centralized accommodation, including youth hostels, temporary camps, and hotel rooms coordinated by the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau. An additional 1,144 residents secured housing through the Housing Bureau’s transitional flats or units managed by the Hong Kong Housing Society. Two refuge centers remain operational for those still needing assistance.
All transitional housing units are designed to meet basic living standards, providing essential amenities such as a private bathroom with a shower and a designated cooking area. Larger sites often include community facilities such as laundries and convenience stores. Critically, the accommodation is provided free of charge, and pets are permitted, recognizing the emotional importance of companion animals during this traumatic time. Residents seeking information on transitional housing availability can contact the Housing Bureau’s Transitional Housing Task Force at 3611 8482.
In an effort to enhance connectivity for residents displaced to the Transitional Housing Project – Tai Po “Good House,” the shuttle bus service linking the site to MTR Tai Po Market Station will commence its first weekday journey earlier, starting at 7:30 a.m. on Monday, December 1.
Sustained Social Welfare Outreach
The Social Welfare Department (SWD) is maintaining comprehensive outreach efforts, initiating a “one household, one social worker” follow-up scheme. SWD officers have contacted around 1,300 households and registered 3,200 residents for this personalized support system. Social workers will remain in continuous contact with the families to ensure their long-term welfare. Affected individuals who have not yet connected with the SWD are urged to call the dedicated hotline at 182 183 to provide their details and receive assistance. The focused, sustained effort from both official agencies and the public underscore Hong Kong’s commitment to providing robust and encompassing support during this profound recovery period.