Life in a big city like Hong Kong often revolves around the next hottest bar or restaurant. But beyond the buzz, it’s just as important to confront the social issues and harsh living conditions layered within the city. As one of the most densely populated places in the world, a domino effect here can quickly impact everyone around us. That’s why it’s so crucial to extend a helping hand however we can. If you’ve been looking for a way to contribute, we’ve listed disaster relief efforts in Hong Kong and where you can donate.
A tragic fire broke out at the Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po on Wednesday, 26 November, claiming dozens of lives and leaving many injured. What started off on a bamboo scaffolding around one tower, rapidly spread to other buildings in the complex. The disaster has displaced thousands of residents, who are now in temporary shelters with few daily necessities. So, whether you’re looking to help in terms of distributing necessities, donate money online, or giving blood, you can find more details below. In times of distress, it is also essential to look after mental well-being. For anyone affected who may need professional support, we have also highlighted relevant assistance resources.
Disaster relief efforts in Hong Kong and where to donate
Where to donate supplies for the Tai Po fire victims
- Tai Po Market Temporary Collection Point, Tat Wan Road, see location here.
- Tai Wo Temporary Collection Point, at Tai Wo Estate, see location here.
- Sha Tin Temporary Collection Point, see location here.
The collection points are all conveniently located by MTR stations. However, according to news outlets, the collection points are overflowing with supplies. Keep an eye for the next coming days on what’s needed for the victims.
Where to give online donations
- Crossroads Foundation, crossroads.org.hk
- ImpactHK, impacthk.org
- GoodCity.HK, goodcity.hk
- Christian Action, christian-action.org.hk
- Caritas Hong Kong, caritas.org.hk
- Po Leung Kuk, poleungkuk.org.hk
- The Salvation Army, salvationarmy.org.hk
- The Community Chest of Hong Kong, commchest.org
- The Neighbourhood Advice-Action Council, naac.org.hk
These NGOs and organisations registered in Hong Kong accept cash donations, as well as supplies like clothing, household goods, furniture, small electrical appliances, and so on.
Where to give blood donation
- Blood Donation Vehicle, Tai Po Tai Wo Road, Tai Po
- Kai Tak Community Isolation Facility
- Various donations centres around Hong Kong, see all here.
Patients with major injuries often require blood transfusions. If you are able to help, here is a list of locations where you can donate blood for those in need.
Emotional support hotlines in Hong Kong
- The Samaritans Hong Kong, +852 2896 0000, 24-hour and multilingual. samaritans.org.hk
- Suicide Prevention Services, +852 2382 0000, 24-hour immediate crisis intervention and support. sps.org.hk
- Social Welfare Department Hotline, +852 2343 2255, swd.gov.hk
- Hospital Authority Mental Health Direct, +852 2466 7350, ha.org.hk
- Caritas Family Crisis Support Centre, +852 18288, fcsc.caritas.org.hk
If you or someone you know needs immediate mental health support or referral services, please call the Government’s “18111 – Mental Health Support Hotline“. In times of community distress, checking in on your own mental well-being and that of those around you is just as important as physical aid.
Other emergency hotlines in Hong Kong
- Emergency services (police, fire, ambulance), 999
- Police Hotline, +852 2527 7177
- Department of Health, +852 2961 8989
- SPCA for animal hotline, +852 2711 1000
- HELP for Domestic Workers, +852 2523 4020
Note : The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.