The government announced on Saturday morning that the Support Fund for Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po has reached HK$3.6 billion and will support affected residents not only with immediate needs but also medium- to long-term rebuilding of their lives, with all administrative costs borne by public funds.
Deputy Chief Secretary for Administration Warner Cheuk Wing-hing told a radio program that the fund, comprising HK$3.3 billion in public donations plus a HK$300 million government injection, is progressing smoothly with eight categories of financial assistance for residents, bereaved families, injured workers and owners.
Around HK$20 million in HK$10,000 emergency cash grants has already been distributed.
Small donors giving HK$50,000 or less can claim tax deductions simply by keeping bank transfer records, without waiting for official receipts.
On permanent rehousing, Deputy Financial Secretary Michael Wong Wai-lun said social workers assigned to each household through the "one social worker per household" service will track evolving needs.
While several options—including buying back property titles, priority access to subsidized flats, in-district relocation and public rental housing for eligible owners—are on the table, authorities are confident land can be found in Tai Po to build new subsidized home-ownership flats faster than usual, though reconstruction would still take the longest.
A clearer package balancing residents’ wishes, public expectations and prudent use of funds is expected soon after discussions with lawmakers.
