The government has more than 1,000 units available for longer-term housing of residents displaced by the Wang Fuk Court fire and has provided compensation to the families of foreign domestic helpers who died.
As of Monday noon, the "Tai Po Wang Fuk Court Assistance Fund" had received about HK$3.4 billion in public donations. Combined with the government's HK$300 million initial funding, the total fund amounts to approximately HK$3.7 billion for long-term support.
The living subsidy for affected households has been increased from HK$50,000 to HK$100,000, with 1,883 cases processed. For each deceased victim, HK$200,000 in condolence money and HK$50,000 for funeral expenses have been disbursed in 130 cases.
Families of foreign domestic helpers who died are also receiving HK$200,000 in condolence money and HK$50,000 for funeral expenses. Injured helpers are receiving either HK$50,000 or HK$100,000 in injury grants. A HK$20,000 special subsidy has been provided to 110 helpers employed at Wang Fuk Court.
The Immigration Department is allowing affected helpers whose contracts were terminated to stay in Hong Kong as visitors for three months to seek new employment without returning home first, and waiving extension fees.
Regarding housing, 1,336 residents are accommodated in youth hostels, campsites or hotel rooms coordinated by the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau. Another 3,247 reside in transitionary housing, Hong Kong Housing Society projects or temporary housing at Po Tin in Tuen Mun.
More than 1,000 units remain available for longer-term placement. Transitionary housing and Housing Society projects across different districts can provide about 400 units, while Po Tin Temporary Housing and "Kai Hang 1331" in Kai Tak offer another 900 units.
Affected residents staying in transitionary housing or Housing Society projects are exempt from rent. Transitional housing operators and the Housing Society have equipped units with furniture and appliances. Social workers have contacted over 1,980 households, providing "one family, one social worker" services to more than 4,900 residents.
