The Hong Kong Jockey Club is deeply saddened by the tragic fire which broke out at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po yesterday. We extend our condolences to all those who have lost loved ones and our sympathy to all those who have suffered injury and loss during the fire.

In response to these tragic events, the Club has been maintaining close contacts with relevant government departments to identify effective ways to render support to the affected residents. The Club announced today (27 November) that it is providing HK$100 million in assistance via the Jockey Club Emergency Relief Fund to address the immediate needs of victims and the families of the deceased. This aid will be provided via the Social Welfare Department and non-governmental organisations. This represents the first tranche of the Club’s support, with more forthcoming.

Immediate emergency assistance includes:

• HK$150,000 to the family of each deceased person.
• HK$100,000 to each seriously injured person.
• HK$50,000 to each injured person in a stable condition.
• For families relocated to short-term housing and youth hostels arranged by the government or those who have self-arranged their relocation: 1-2 persons households will receive up to HK$10,000; 3 or more persons households will receive up to HK$15,000.
• For operators of short-term housing to furnish units in preparation to receive relocated families: HK$18,000 for 1-2 person households and HK$20,000 for 3 or more person households.

Apart from immediate financial assistance, the Club's Charities Trust is working closely with relevant government departments and non-governmental organisations to offer additional help over the coming one to three months. This includes:

• Transitional housing
• Food assistance
• Bereavement and psychological support
• Educational support
• Carer support
• Distribution of medications through community pharmacies under the Jockey Club PHARM+ Community Medication Service Network.

The Club is constantly monitoring the situation.

The Jockey Club Emergency Relief Fund was established in 2010 to provide rapid assistance to victims of natural disasters, accidents and epidemics. It enables the Club's Charities Trust to respond quickly and flexibly to those in immediate need.