On October 31, Dantri newspaper, together with local authorities in Bac Ninh City, visited the family of Nguyen Thi Phuong, 67, in Bo Ha Ward and presented a symbolic board representing donations of VND 362,820,725 (USD 14,000) from readers.
Journalist Nguyen Xuan Toan, deputy editor-in-chief of Dantri, and local leaders present the symbolic cheque for more than VND 362 million donated by readers to the family of the three orphaned children (Photo: Trinh Le Ha Anh).
Phuong's son died suddenly in March this year, just four months after his wife also died suddenly. The couple left behind three children, aged 12, five and three, who are now being raised by their grandmother.
Phuong's husband, Nguyen Nhu Bay, 70, has suffered the effects of a stroke for several years. His health has deteriorated to the point that he can no longer work or help care for the children, leaving most of the family's responsibilities to his wife.
The family was already struggling financially, and Phuong also faced outstanding bank debt from a loan taken out by her late son and daughter-in-law. The house where they live was at risk of being repossessed by the bank.
After Dantri published a report highlighting the family's circumstances, many readers sent donations to help them.
The newspaper has transferred the full amount to Phuong's bank account.
Moved by the support, Phuong expressed her gratitude to Dantri, its readers, local authorities and other benefactors who had helped the family through a difficult period.
"Our family does not know what to say except to offer our sincerest thanks to Dantri, its readers, local authorities and the Red Cross for their kindness and support over the past months," she said emotionally.
Phuong and her three grandchildren (Photo: Trinh Le Ha Anh).
Nghiem Xuan Huong, vice chairman of the Bac Ninh City People's Council, also thanked Dantri and its readers for supporting and encouraging the three children.
He said local authorities would continue working with the family to find appropriate ways to help them gradually stabilise their lives.
"With the donations from readers, local authorities will work with the family to develop a plan to manage and use the money as effectively and safely as possible. This valuable support from Dantri readers will not only help the children continue their education with peace of mind but also provide a solid foundation for their future," Huong said.