From shoes to scholarships: Hongkongers unite for Tai Po fire victims

From shoes, apparel and daily necessities to food, logistics services and even university sponsorships for two orphans, donors from all walks of life have come together to support survivors of the Tai Po fire, Hong Kong’s deadliest in decades.

Beyond the HK$2.8 billion (US$360 million) raised from the private sector and the government so far, many compassionate people contributed what they could in a show of solidarity.

The fire has so far claimed 159 lives, including that of a firefighter, and left about 3,000 people homeless.

A donor has offered to fund the education of one or two children who lost one or both parents in the fire until they complete their undergraduate studies in Hong Kong, said Stella Cheung, chairwoman of the HF (Hong Kong) Foundation.

The anonymous donor is providing the grant through Cheung’s organisation and details have yet to be finalised based on the children’s situation.

“The benefactor recognised the importance of education and believed that donating to this cause could change one’s life, a gesture far more impactful than giving cash,” Cheung said.