 The free market in Tien Giang opens early in the morning. |
Beginning in the early morning, many people - mainly lottery sellers, disadvantaged elders and the sick - come to the free market organized by Long Dinh commune’s Red Cross Society.
They receive essential commodities which are enough for a day. Each person doesn’t have to spend a cent to be served. The market often ends at 7 a.m.
Duong Thi Ngoc Anh, one of recipients, was moved to say, “I’m a lottery seller but had to stay home in recent days. It’s so lucky for people like me to have a free market that provides us rice and food.”
According to Le Bao Quoc, Chairman of Long Dinh commune’s Red Cross Society, on the first day alone, the market served about 50 people with a value worth 65 USD. The most sought-after products are rice, noodles, sugar, soy sauce, and eggs.
 Benefactors donate goods to the free market. |
To maintain the free market, members of Long Dinh commune’s Red Cross Society have called for donations from benefactors and businesses.
Nguyen Thi Thu Thao, a member of the Society, said that she comes to the market at 5 a.m. every day to serve disadvantaged people.
“I come to the market every day to help divide commodities. I feel happy seeing many poor people picking up the goods. It’s crowded but all have strictly abided by disease prevention rules. They look happy because all received what they need,” said Thao.
Chairman of Long Dinh commune’s Red Cross Society Le Bao Quoc said, “The market’s motto is ‘If you are in financial difficulty, get a meal’, which means the rest should be reserved for others. The market was established to help poor people overcome the difficult period caused by COVID-19. I hope to receive more donations from benefactors.”
 The free clothes shop run by Long Dinh commune's Red Cross Society. |
Long Dinh commune’s Red Cross Society and Mr. Quoc's family have also offered a free clothes shop, funeral services, and ambulances for the poor.
The services are on small scale but of great importance during the COVID-19 pandemic.