Hong Kong's business community has mobilized to support victims of the devastating Tai Po fire, which left thousands homeless. Major hotel groups and property developers are offering free accommodation, financial aid, and other essential services to those affected by the blaze.
Key Takeaways
- Regal Hotels provides 160 free rooms and meals.
- Sun Hung Kai Properties donates HK$20 million and 160 rooms.
- Sino Group offers HK$20 million and 160 rooms.
- Langham Hospitality Group makes 100 rooms available.
- Companies also offer educational support and postponed property sales.
Hotels Open Doors to Displaced Residents
Regal Hotels International announced it would provide 160 rooms across 12 of its properties. These rooms, under the Regal, Regala, and iClub brands, will be available for two weeks. Some of these hotels are also pet-friendly, addressing a critical need for families with animals.
In addition to lodging, Regal Hotels is offering free meals to the fire victims. The group's vice-chairman, Poman Lo, directed these comprehensive relief efforts. The Regal Riverside Hotel in Sha Tin has also opened a study hub for students and residents needing a quiet space.
Fast Fact
The Tai Po fire is considered one of Hong Kong's worst blazes in seven decades, highlighting the urgent need for widespread community support.
Major Developers Contribute Substantial Aid
Leading property developers in Hong Kong are also stepping forward with significant contributions. Sun Hung Kai Properties, the city's largest developer by market value, has pledged HK$20 million (US$2.57 million) for emergency support. They are also providing 160 rooms across their four Royal Hotels.
Sino Group and its philanthropic arm, the Ng Ting Fong Charitable Foundation, are matching this level of support. They have committed HK$20 million in donations and 160 rooms in three of their hotels. Sino Group manages properties like The Fullerton Ocean Park Hotel and the Conrad Hong Kong Hotel.
"Our community needs us now more than ever. Providing safe shelter and basic necessities is the first step in helping these families rebuild their lives," a spokesperson for one of the contributing hotel groups stated.
Additional Hotel Support
Langham Hospitality Group, part of Great Eagle Holdings, is also contributing to the relief efforts. They are providing 100 rooms across five of their hotels in the city. Affected residents can stay for a minimum of 14 days per room, depending on availability.
Background
The fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po impacted seven apartment blocks. The tragic incident resulted in 128 fatalities, leaving thousands without homes. The widespread destruction has prompted an unprecedented outpouring of aid from local businesses.
Beyond Accommodation: Educational and Market Support
The support extends beyond immediate shelter. Regal Hotels is collaborating with the Bodhi Love Foundation (BLF) to assist primary schools and kindergartens in Tai Po. This partnership provides emergency assistance of HK$2,000 (US$257) for each child, allowing parents to purchase essential school supplies.
Furthermore, the Regal Riverside Hotel will host a six-week mindfulness training program by the BLF for both parents and children. This initiative aims to provide psychological support and coping mechanisms for those affected by the trauma.
Property Sales Postponed
In a show of solidarity, some developers have also postponed property sales. Sino Group delayed the sale of 150 flats at its One Park Place in Yau Tong. New World Development also postponed the sale of 63 units at the Austin Bohemian project in Yau Ma Tei. These delays allow the community to focus on recovery and relief efforts.
The concerted effort from Hong Kong's business sector underscores a strong commitment to community welfare during this challenging time. The scale of the donations and direct aid highlights the immediate need for support for the thousands displaced by the fire.
- Regal Hotels offers 160 rooms, free meals, and a study hub.
- Sun Hung Kai Properties donates HK$20 million and 160 rooms.
- Sino Group provides HK$20 million and 160 rooms.
- Langham Hospitality Group allocates 100 rooms.
- Emergency financial aid for children's school supplies is also available.
