On the afternoon of the 1st, Hong Kong SAR Chief Executive John Lee visited the transitional housing project "Lutheran Double Fish Hub" in Yuen Long to meet and console residents affected by the recent fire at Hong Fuk Court in Tai Po. The "Double Fish Hub" has accommodated around 60 households and over a hundred disaster victims.
John Lee emphasized that the SAR government attaches great importance to the well-being of the affected residents, and in addition to immediate emergency assistance, is also attentive to their various needs in daily life.
During his visit, John Lee learned about the living conditions of the disaster victims. Some victims said that the SAR government's prompt release of a HK$10,000 emergency fund and the coordination by social service organizations in providing beds, home appliances, and other basic supplies alleviated urgent needs and made them feel real support amid their difficulties.
John Lee also inspected the temporary supplies center, which was set up by converting an activity room and houses daily necessities donated by various sectors. He commended the staff of the social service organizations operating the center, the social workers, as well as the "Double Fish Hub" residents who proactively assisted newcomers, saying that they rapidly mobilized in a critical moment to provide comprehensive help to disaster victims—from daily necessities to emotional support. He remarked that this demonstrates the spirit of solidarity and mutual support in Hong Kong society.
In addition, as of 1:00 pm on the 1st, the Tai Po Hong Fuk Court Assistance Fund established by the SAR government had received HK$1.3 billion in external donations, and together with the HK$300 million in seed funding from the government, the total amount of the fund has reached about HK$1.6 billion.