In this time of the COVID-19 pandemic, many families in Da Nang are experiencing losses of loved ones and many children were left helpless as they have lost at least one of their parents because of COVID-19. Meanwhile, family members are struggling with related challenges such as lost income, child care, and their own grief and loss, and have little time to focus on the child. Grieving children are in need of care, protection and support from local authorities and benefactors.

A benefactor gives scholarship to a school female pupil who lost a parent to COVID-19. Photo: P.C

Statistics released by the municipal Department of Labour, War Invalids and Social Affairs show that 15 children in Da Nang have lost at least one of their parents to COVID-19, and most of them are from very poor families.

The National Fund for Vietnamese Children provided financial support worth VND 45 million for 9 grieving children, and each received VND 5 million. Besides, 3 other children in difficult circumstances received life insurance policies valued at 20 million VND each for free from AIA (Viet Nam) Life Insurance Company Limited, and they will receive benefits when they reach age 18.

Ms. Bui Thi Thanh Ha, the Chairwoman of Thanh Khe District’s An Khe Ward Chapter of the Da Nang Women's Union said that the organization has called on a benefactor to offer monthly cash assistance worth VND 500,000 to a female student from a poor family who has lost her father to COVID-19 during 3 years until she graduates from senior high school.

Mr. Nguyen Huu Cong, the Vice Chairman of Thanh Khe District People's Committee, remarked that authorities at local level have been asked to offer spiritual and material support to grieving children in their locales in efforts to help them pursue their academic dreams to study well and become responsible, respectful, active citizens who contribute positively to society.

In celebration of the Lunar New Year 2022, Mrs Ngo Thi Kim Yen, the Vice Chairwoman of the Da Nang People's Committee visited and gave gifts to grieving children in order to encourage them to overcome difficult circumstances to study hard and become good citizens in the future. In addition, Mrs Yen also asked relevant agencies and authorities at local level to provide support these children in a timely manner.

Reporting by PHUONG CHI- Translating by H.L