Hong Kong NGO offers HK$30,000 to Tai Po fire victims who transfer property

Hong Kong’s largest non-profit organisation, the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals, will offer a HK$30,000 (US$3,827) relocation allowance to victims of the deadly Tai Po fire who agree to transfer ownership of their properties to the government, its chief executive has said, with the scheme expected to benefit about 1,000 households.

Albert Su Yau-on also noted on Sunday that more than 1,000 inquiries have been received regarding the legal aid scheme for Wang Fuk Court residents, following the November blaze that killed 168 people and displaced over 5,000 residents.

Su said the new measure was introduced in response to feedback from residents who expressed a desire for financial support to help them settle into new homes.

“If they can show us that they have a new place to live after selling their property title, be it buying a new private property, renting a flat or other arrangements to start a new life in a new place, we will give each household HK$30,000,” he said on a radio show.

The allowance will be granted provided residents can show proof that they have transferred their property title and secured a new residence. He added that the aim is to support long-term resettlement.

Su said residents would be free to use the grant as they see fit, whether for furniture, renovation work or other needs.

The group has set aside HK$30 million to support around 1,000 households with relocation, in addition to HK$10 million allocated two weeks ago to help residents cover legal expenses related to property transfers and sale and purchase agreements.