Transitional housing operator affirms donations are strictly for Tai Po fire victims after appliance dispute

The operator of transitional housing for Tai Po fire victims has reaffirmed that all donated appliances are dedicated solely to affected families, following controversy over a former policy restricting residents from taking items upon departure.

This follows the Society of Rehabilitation and Crime Prevention, also known as SideBySide, which runs the "Good House" project in Tai Po for fire-affected families, announcing the drop of the policy yesterday. 

Speaking on a radio program this morning, Chief Executive Anthea Lee Shuk-wai recognized the need for flexibility in their service, confirming that departing residents may now take appliances as needed.

Lee stressed the dispute arose from inquiries rather than enforcement, with no families yet denied items as none have moved out since rental subsidies were announced.

Aiming to benefit more families

Considering the units at Good House not equipped with furniture nor appliances, she explained the original ban aimed to preserve appliances for incoming residents, particularly the expected 200 to 300 more displaced households from Wang Fuk Court.

She highlighted that the donors agreed resources should serve only Tai Po victims to maximize aid.

Residents were informed upon moving in that appliances should remain—a measure intended to aid more victims and avoid the logistical challenge of moving large items in a building without elevators, she added.

Adapting to residents’ needs

"Our original intention was to enhance resource efficiency, believing residents could apply for more suitable appliances based on their new homes' actual conditions," Lee said.

Responding to public feedback, the organization introduced flexibility, now allowing departing residents to take needed appliances. 

Lee emphasized that services must adapt to residents' actual needs.

Final arrangements for resources

She assured strict internal oversight ensures all donations remain for intended recipients, with any surplus after rehousing potentially donated to other families in need.