Activities to support people affected by the Tai Po fire

Difficulty: Explorer (Level 1)

On November 26, a massive fire broke out at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po. It burned for more than 43 hours and killed at least 160 people. Some people lost friends or family members. Many lost their homes and everything they owned. It is a tough time for the city, and it is OK to feel sad.

Hongkongers are coming together to support those affected by the fires, and you can join their efforts. You can also show your appreciation for the brave firefighters who fought the flames for nearly two days.

Photo: Shutterstock

Thanking firefighters

Being a firefighter is a very dangerous job. It can be tough both physically and emotionally. Here is one way to show your gratitude for everything they do.

Materials

• pen or pencil

• paper, envelope and stamp

• coloured pencils or markers (optional)

Instructions

1. Write down your thoughts in a letter. You could say you are grateful that firefighters keep people safe and that you appreciate their hard work. You could even draw a picture, if you like. Make sure to sign your name so they know who the letter is from!

2. Have your parent help you find the address of the fire station you want to send your letter to. You could send it to one near the site of the fire, such as Tai Po Fire Station, Tai Po East Fire Station or Sha Tin Fire Station. Or you could send it to your neighbourhood fire station.

3. Write the fire station address clearly on an envelope, then put your letter inside. Write your name and address in the upper left-hand corner. Seal the envelope properly and make sure to put a stamp on it. Ask your parent to mail it for you or go to the postbox and drop it off yourself. Encourage your friends to send letters as well.

Photo: Shutterstock

Donate essential items

Many organisations are collecting supplies for people who lost their homes. Here’s how you can take part.

1. With an adult’s supervision, search for charities and organisations that are supporting victims of the fire. For example, Feeding Hong Kong is collecting food such as rice, cooking oil, crackers and biscuits to give to people in need. Many places have already received lots of donations, so check the organisation’s website to see what they need.

2. Once you choose a charity to focus on, look through your kitchen cabinet with a parent. See what goods you could donate. Maybe there is a new box of oats or canned goods that you could give. You could even ask your parent to message other people in your building to let them know you are collecting donations for the victims of the Tai Po fire. They might be willing to give you a few items to donate.

3. After you have collected your items, it’s time to drop them off. Head to the collection point with an adult – the location is likely to be listed on the organisation’s website. Make sure to carry the items in a sturdy bag that will not break. You should also check that everything is unopened and not expired. Make sure to be extra polite to the people collecting your donation; they are working very hard and would appreciate a kind word or two!