Funds of VND80 million (USD3,775) have been raised by local authorities in Quang Ngai Province to help build a house for a father and son who lived in the forest for decades.
The father’s health is improving while the son has been gradually getting used to a new life
Tay Tra District People’s Committee granted VND40 million (USD1,887) and the Vietnam Fatherland Front in Quang Ngai Province donated the rest, raised from contributions by local individuals and organisations.
Local authorities in Quang Ngai Province have been attempting to help Ho Van Thanh, the 82-year old father, and his 41-year old son, Ho Van Loan return to a more "normal" life since August 7.
Hoang Ngoc Anh, Chairman of the District People’s Committee, said, “We found two places suitable for constructing houses. The final decision will be made after speaking to Thanh’s relatives.”
Ho Minh Lam, Thanh’s nephew, said, “Since uncle Thanh retreated to the forest he has built eight huts. He continued to move deeper into the forest as time went on. He has an aversion to noisy places."
Daily health checkups for Loan
Their return has attracted interest from both local and international media organisations, affecting the quiet life the village has maintained for many years.
While Thanh's condition is still a matter of speculation, being bedridden, Loan seems to be gradually adapting.
Ho Minh Lam said that Loan is now more playful and does not wish to return to the forest, but does have occasional bouts of yearning for his former life. Meanwhile the family are doing their best to help the two integrate back into the community. The chairman of the District People’s Committee said they have urged local authorities to speed up procedures to grant Thanh and Loan with identity cards and a residency record.
They will also benefit from some social welfare policies and be provided with regular healthcare, Anh added.
