Over the past time, the model of ‘Zero-dong stalls’ initiated by individuals and organizations across Da Nang has served as a much-needed relief for poverty-stricken residents citywide to overcome economic hardships brought about by the current COVID-19 pandemic.

Ms. Le Thi Hoang Ngan (left) in Hoa Minh Ward, Lien Chieu District helps a needy woman choose warm clothes from her ‘Zero-dong clothing stall’ Photo: N. QUANG

Chairman of the Hoa Thuan Tay Ward chapter of the Viet Nam Fatherland Front Committee in Hai Chau District Nguyen Thi Kieu Linh said that, through the model of ‘Zero-dong stalls’ held in the ward, 160 poor and disadvantaged households have received gift packages containing essential necessities such as rice, cooking oil, canned fish, eggs, fruit and vegetables with a total amount of VND32 million.

The funding for the operation of these charity stalls was raised from benefactors and sponsors throughout the ward.

“This model came from the idea of both helping disadvantaged people in combination with raising public awareness of environmental sanitation. Along with receiving free-of-charge essential necessities, each needy shopper who comes to ‘Zero-dong stalls’ receive biodegradable bags used for convenient food storage whilst going to the market, thereby limiting the use of nylon bags which pose harm to the environment”, added Ms. Linh.

In reality, many poor workers were feeling the economic pinch caused by the pandemic. They were hoping to eat reasonably well, but were helpless as their incomes fell or disappeared. So, such a charity model is of great significance amid tough times triggered by the coronavirus surge.

Holding a gift package containing many essential necessities in her hand, Mrs. Dinh Thi Thu Thanh from residential group No.23, Hoa Thuan Tay Ward could not hide her joy.

“We are very grateful... Having them for meal helped us save some money to cover other living expenses in life”, said Thu.

Meanwhile, Hoa Minh Ward, Lien Chieu District saw the appearance of a store offering free shoes, clothes and other items located at the end of Nguyen Dinh Tu Street.

This charity site, launched by Ms. Le Thi Hoang Ngan, a 30-year-old woman dwelling in Hoa Minh Ward, has operated for about three months, receiving high public applause for its humanitarian values.

Most of the visitors coming here are low-income earners, scrap collectors, lottery ticket sellers and motorbike taxi drivers who show up now and then to grab for some supplies.

Since the store’s opening, the kind-hearted woman has spent much of her time appealing for her friends, neighbours and others to donate their used items for the poor.

This creative idea by Ngan really makes it easier for people to donate and more dignified to the receivers.

Hundreds of sets of donated clothes are very clean, and they are displayed tidily with the intention of allowing the needy find it easier to choose the suitable ones for themselves and their family members.

In reality, the poor are very in need of such necessities some of which they can not afford to buy due to their financial difficulties, whilst there are many families which throw out a lot of used/unused clothes, materials as and when they get transferred or for other reasons. That’s where the idea of bridging the gap through such useful store was developed.

The store for the poor where everything is free has received high praise from local inhabitants thanks to its great significance, and it has also seen their active engagement in donation activities as well.

Ngan said she feels very happy to help others, and this is a good way to experience peace of mind.

It is hoped that such meaningful activities mentioned above would inspire others to bring happiness to the poor in an attempt to make their lives better, especially amid financial difficulties brought about by the unexpected COVID-19 surge.

Reporting by NGUYEN QUANG – Translating by A.THU