Nguyen The Manh, General Director of Vietnam Social Security, gives Tet gifts to the poor in Hanoi. Photo: baophapluat.vn

Authorities’ care

Leaders of the State, Government, National Assembly, and central agencies are paying visits to social policy families and others in difficult circumstances across Vietnam. Everywhere they go, they ask the local authorities to pay more attention to poor families by enforcing social security policies so that everyone can have a joyful Tet.

Vietnam Social Security is handing out social insurance books, health insurance cards, and other gifts, bringing a warm Tet to the poor in 63 provinces and cities. The Vietnam General Confederation of Labor has allocated 100 million USD to support workers and raised 790,000 USD to buy gifts for workers in difficult circumstances. The Ministry of Labor, Invalids, and Social Affairs has spent more than 19 million USD on gifts for people with meritorious service. The General Department of State Reserves delivered nearly 14,000 tons of rice from the national reserve to Cao Bang, Nghe An, Quang Binh, Quang Ngai, Phu Yen, and four other provinces.

"Online Workers' Fair" program. Photo: laodong.vn

Localities have disbursed funds to help their residents. Ho Chi Minh City spent the most – nearly 40 million USD followed by Hanoi, Hai Phong, and Binh Duong. Ho Chi Minh City’s Confederation of Labor organized a program which gathered 10,000 families of disadvantaged union members and workers who are unable to return home for Tet. Others programs, including "Online Workers' Fair", "Worker's Day – Gratitude Market", and "Ticket of Gratitude" are helping to bring workers home to reunite with their families and caring for 1,000 children of union members orphaned by the pandemic.

During a recent pre-Tet visit to Da Nang city, President Nguyen Xuan Phuc said: “Vietnamese people’s self-reliance continues to be affirmed during New Year and Spring celebrations. Only this spirit can overcome all difficulties. The central government, the municipal, district, ward, commune, and each family and clan are involved in charity programs so that everyone can have a joyous Tet.”

Aid recipients’ response

Aid recipients are moved by the care of the government and the community. Ms. Bui Thi Cam Thu, a worker at the Thanh Cong Textile and Garment Company in Vinh Long province, said: “This year was difficult due to the pandemic, but my company still ensures jobs for workers, and gives Tet gifts, bonuses, and allowances to disadvantaged workers to help them have a warmer Tet.”

For Mr. Tran Thanh, a native of Quang Ngai, life has been miserable during the pandemic. “Last year my income dropped sharply. Receiving this gift, I am less worried about this Tet. My children and grandchildren are also happy. At the end of the year, when I receive the help of the Labor Federation and neighbors, I am very happy,” Mr. Thanh said.

Ms. Nguyen Thi Sam is one of the most disadvantaged people in Da Nang city’s Hoa Vang district. “Being poor, I have received money from the State. Now my family can afford to build a new, clean, beautiful house. This Tet has been very enjoyable. No need to worry about floods and other difficulties as we did in the past. The local authorities have given us gifts and taken care of our family,” she said.