Toronto, ON — December 8, 2025
Five major non-profit organizations in the Greater Toronto Area—the Chiu Chow Benevolent Association of Ontario, the Chinese Cultural Centre of Greater Toronto, the Chinese Professionals Association of Canada (CPAC) Foundation, the Toronto Hong Kong Lions Club, and Yee Hong Community Wellness Foundation—jointly launched the “Toronto Responds: Support Hong Kong Fire Victims” fundraising campaign today at a press conference held at Markham Civic Centre.
The campaign aims to mobilize the collective strength of Toronto’s Chinese community to support residents affected by the devastating fire at Hong Lok House in Tai Po, Hong Kong—one of the most serious urban fires in the city’s history. Numerous community leaders, non-profit organizations, business associations, and service groups attended the launch, demonstrating strong solidarity and compassion.
Funds to Be Transferred Directly to the Community Chest of Hong Kong
All donations raised will be transferred within six weeks by the CPAC Foundation to the Community Chest of Hong Kong, an independent, non-governmental charity. The organization has established the “Emergency Assistance Fund for the Tai Po Fire”, providing:
HK$20,000 (approx. CAD$3,600) in emergency relief to each affected household
HK$50,000 (approx. CAD$9,000) to families who lost loved ones
The Community Chest allocates 100% of donations directly to relief efforts, ensuring full transparency and timely distribution to victims.
Community Leaders Call for Unified Support
The press conference was moderated by Adrian Siew, President & CEO of Yee Hong Foundation, who emphasized the remarkable unity shown in just one week of preparation. “We hope our efforts convey to affected families in Hong Kong that the Toronto community stands with them,” he said.
Dr. Joseph Wong, founder and Chair of Yee Hong and a veteran of global disaster-relief efforts, praised Hong Kong’s longstanding generosity in international crises. “Hong Kong has always stepped up for the world. Today, it is our turn to support Hong Kong in its moment of need,” he said.
Emily Chao, President of CPAC and the CPAC Foundation, detailed the compliance review conducted regarding overseas donations. She noted that partnering with the Community Chest ensures donations are delivered quickly, securely, and directly to affected families.
Bill Wong, Honorary President of the Chiu Chow Benevolent Association, announced a fundraising target of CAD$500,000, with an interim goal of CAD$250,000 before Christmas. He also confirmed that committee members have collectively pledged the first CAD$50,000, while the Canada-China Realty Association committed an additional CAD$20,000.
Richard Lam, President of the Chinese Cultural Centre of Greater Toronto, announced a December 20 charity concert to further support the campaign.
Morris Mok of the Toronto Hong Kong Lions Club called on Lions Clubs, business organizations, and Hong Kong immigrant groups to take part: “Rebuilding the homes and lives of nearly 2,000 affected households is our shared responsibility.”
A Toronto resident who volunteered at the Tai Po fire scene shared an emotional firsthand account, describing the scale of destruction and the profound loss suffered by families. “The least we can do here is offer hope and support,” he said.
Government Officials Express Support
Several government representatives attended the launch, including:
Raymond Cho, Ontario Minister for Seniors and Accessibility
Daisy Wai, MPP for Richmond Hill
David West, Mayor of Richmond Hill
Godwin Chan, Deputy Mayor of Richmond Hill
Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow and Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti delivered video messages encouraging community participation and acknowledging the importance of the campaign.
How to Donate
Members of the public can contribute through several channels:
Online Donations: www.cpac-canada.ca
By Phone:
Yee Hong Foundation: 416-321-0777
Chinese Cultural Centre of Greater Toronto: 416-292-9293 ext. 232
Donations of CAD$20 or more will receive a tax receipt issued by the CPAC Foundation.（LJI by Rita)
