Hundreds of volunteers have come together in Hong Kong to provide immediate aid to victims of the city’s deadliest fire in nearly 80 years. From distributing diapers and hot meals to offering free counselling, the community has mobilized rapidly to support those affected.
Emergency crews continue to search for survivors and victims at the Wang Fuk Court housing complex in Tai Po, where at least 94 lives have been lost and many people remain missing.
Volunteers have formed organized teams to collect donations, arrange transport, and manage day-and-night distribution shifts. Across from the damaged housing complex, a large support camp has sprung up beside a shopping mall, offering displaced residents essential supplies.
Blue and red tents house a range of goods from toiletries to bedding, while hand-drawn cardboard maps guide residents to available resources, including pet supplies and clothing.
“This is real civil participation,” said 22-year-old Helena, who is coordinating volunteers.
At the nearby Tai Po train station, a collection point has been set up for donated items such as pillows, socks, water bottles, and rubbish bags. Teams then transport these essentials to shelters and a kindergarten that has been temporarily converted into an aid and support center.
Bosco Pang, 40, an employee at electric car company BYD, set up a charging station for power banks at the back of his car, helping volunteers and residents stay connected. “There are many volunteers helping out at the resource stations. That’s why we came up with this idea,” he said.
Residents are also donating blood to help treat the severely injured.
Corporate and Government Support
Hong Kong leader John Lee announced a HK$300-million support fund for affected households, with each receiving emergency relief of HK$10,000. The Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office coordinated with Guangdong province to quickly dispatch rescue equipment and medical supplies.
Numerous corporations and charitable foundations have stepped in. Property tycoons Li Ka Shing and Lee Shau Kee, alongside companies such as Hang Lung and Shangri-la Group, have made contributions. SF Express is collecting and transporting emergency resources free of charge from its 146 stores.
Major Chinese companies like Xiaomi, Xpeng, Geely, as well as Jack Ma and Tencent’s foundations, have donated supplies. The family office of Chilean businessman Jean Salata contributed HK$10 million for trauma counselling, educational support, and financial relief for families. Hong Kong Airlines is providing logistics support and arranging flights 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 sparked a remarkable display of community spirit, showing how ordinary citizens can come together in extraordinary times. From volunteers sorting supplies to companies mobilizing resources, the people of Hong Kong are demonstrating resilience and solidarity in the face of devastating loss.
