The Hong Kong Labour Department has initiated a targeted financial aid program, offering a special HK$20,000 cash subsidy to local workers and foreign domestic helpers (FDHs) displaced by the recent Wang Fuk Court fire in Tai Po. This emergency relief package supplements previous government assistance, aiming to provide immediate support for those facing work disruption and personal losses following the devastating blaze. Applications are now being accepted through multiple streamlined channels to ensure rapid disbursement of funds.
Essential Relief for Displaced Workers
The subsidy is designed to address the immediate financial needs of those directly employed at the affected residential building. Local workers, including construction staff, cleaners, and security personnel, who were actively working at Wang Fuk Court before the fire are eligible for the one-time payment.
Recognizing the crucial role these individuals play and the immediate loss of income, the Labour Department is actively collaborating with trade unions and service contractors to expedite the application process for these essential workers.
How Local Workers Can Apply
The department has established several accessible submission methods to accommodate applicants:
- Online/Digital: Application forms can be downloaded and submitted via email to labour_liaison@labour.gov.hk.
- Fax: Forms may be faxed directly to 2697 3394.
- Mail/In-Person: Applications can be submitted by post or delivered in person to the Office of Labour Relations Division (Shatin and Taipo). This office is located in Rooms 304–313, 3/F, Sha Tin Government Offices, 1 Sheung Wo Che Road, Sha Tin, New Territories.
- Inquiries: For questions regarding eligibility or the application process, workers may call 2929 4054.
Supporting Foreign Domestic Helpers
Foreign domestic helpers residing at Wang Fuk Court at the time of the incident will also receive the HK$20,000 subsidy. This dedicated support acknowledges the unique challenges FDHs face, particularly the loss of personal belongings and limited access to family support networks while working abroad in Hong Kong.
The Labour Department is coordinating efforts with relevant consulates-general and affected employer households to efficiently organize applications and verify employment details.
Application Process for Foreign Domestic Helpers
FDHs have a separate, dedicated application route managed by the Foreign Domestic Helpers Division:
- Online/Digital: Application forms are available for download and submission via email to fdh_liaison@labour.gov.hk.
- Fax: Forms can be faxed to 3101 0604.
- Mail/In-Person: Submissions can be made by post or delivered personally to the Foreign Domestic Helpers Division at 16/F, One Mong Kok Road Commercial Centre, 1 Mong Kok Road, Kowloon.
- Inquiries: FDHs and their employers may direct questions to 3582 8987.
The Labour Department strongly urges all eligible individuals to submit their applications without delay. Officials have confirmed that verification and processing procedures are being carried out expeditiously to ensure the subsidies reach those in need as quickly as possible, providing vital financial stability during this recovery period. This swift action underscores the government’s commitment to supporting the community’s most vulnerable members following unforeseen crises.