Lasting throughout May, Red Cross organizations at all levels helped 1,160,276 people, 11 times higher than the set target; and collected nearly VND836 billion, 2.08 times higher than the set target, for humanitarian activities.

According to Mr. Tran Sy Pha, Head of the Department of Social Work - Disaster Management under the Vietnam Red Cross, the most positive and impressive strength of this year's Humanitarian Month is the involvement of local authorities. Right after the launching ceremony of National Humanitarian Month 2023, 100% of provinces and cities carried out activities to respond the event.

Humanitarian month program assists over one million disadvantaged people. Photo: VNA

Previously, 100% of the provinces and cities issued plans/instructions for implementation. Humanitarian works directly participated and supported by leaders of Party committees and local authorities helped gain VND19.8 billion, benefiting over 10,000 people. Humanitarian works supported by agencies and units collected over VND25 billion, helping over 122,000 people.

Humanitarian Month 2023 aimed to arouse the love of each person, calling on everyone to actively participate in charity and humanitarian activities, ready to help people in difficult situations, multiplying acts of kindness, contributing to building a united and compassionate community.

Humanitarian Month is the peak month for all people to participate in humanitarian work, creating a movement to emulate and do good works in agencies, organizations and people of all walks of life, promoting hunger eradication and poverty alleviation as well as social security promotion, implemented by the Vietnam Red Cross since 2018.

Illustrative image (internet)

The Humanitarian Month program, launched by international and local organizations, collaborates with government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and volunteers to maximize its outreach. This year, the program expanded its reach, addressing the needs of people affected by poverty, natural disasters, and conflicts.

One of the primary focuses of the program in 2023 was food security. Through partnerships with food banks and local suppliers, millions of nutritious meals were distributed to families struggling with hunger. Reports indicate that in some regions, the initiative contributed to reducing food insecurity rates by a significant margin.

After 6 years of implementation, the Red Cross agencies at all levels have mobilized nearly VND3,000 billion; supported over 5.4 million of the poor and people in difficult circumstances, contributing to a drastic change in awareness of the Party committees, authorities, organizations and individuals towards humanitarian work; created a movement of mutual affection and mutual love in the community; and bringing highlights and outstanding results compared to regular humanitarian activities.

One of the primary focuses of the program in 2023 was food security. Through partnerships with food banks and local suppliers, millions of nutritious meals were distributed to families struggling with hunger. Reports indicate that in some regions, the initiative contributed to reducing food insecurity rates by a significant margin.

Healthcare also played a crucial role in the program. Medical camps were set up in underserved communities, providing free consultations, medications, and vaccinations. Over 500,000 individuals benefited from these healthcare services, including children, pregnant women, and elderly citizens who otherwise had limited access to medical care.

Illustrative images (internet)

Additionally, financial aid and employment training programs were introduced to empower individuals, particularly single mothers, youth, and people with disabilities. By equipping them with skills and resources, the program has enabled many to find employment opportunities and become self-sufficient.

Volunteers and donors played a crucial role in making the Humanitarian Month program a success. Thousands of individuals dedicated their time, expertise, and financial support to ensure the program's objectives were met. Their contributions helped in mobilizing resources, organizing community events, and reaching the most marginalized populations.

The impact of the Humanitarian Month program in 2023 highlights the importance of collective efforts in addressing social challenges. As the initiative continues to grow, there is hope that even more disadvantaged individuals will receive the support they need in the coming years. With ongoing partnerships and commitment from the global community, the program is poised to make an even greater difference in 2024 and beyond.