Illustrative image (Photo: VNA) HCM City (VNA) – The Ho Chi Minh City Department of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs on November 16 sent a document to the municipal People’s Committee suggesting more assistance for lonely older people and orphans affected by COVID-19 in the city.
Accordingly, they will receive health insurance cards, travel pass cards used on public transport means, and entrance tickets to entertainment and cultural areas, sport clubs, and other paid services free-of-charge.
The poor and lonely old persons aged above 60 are expected to receive 1 million VND (43.4 USD) each per month while those aged above 80 are eligible for 800,000 VND each monthly till the end of their life.
The lonely poor and old persons aged 60-80 who are capable of self-catering will receive 650,000 VND each monthly while those who are not poor are eligible for 480,000 VND till their death.
Children who lost a parent to COVID-19 in HCM City's District 4 receive tablets to study online from donors. (Photo: VNA)Children who become orphans caused by the pandemic will be allowed to pursue study till high school level for free. Orphans aged under four will receive 1 million each per month while those aged above four will obtain 800,000 VND till they reach 18.
To ensure fairness and equality for all orphans in general and orphans caused by COVID-19, the department proposed providing additional 480,000 VND each for 1,413 orphans who are receiving social subsidies in the community till they turn 18.
Statistics from the department showed that among 1,413 orphans aged under 18 caused by the pandemic, 66 lost both parents and 19 newborns lost their moms. Over 400 senior citizens lost their children or caregivers to the pandemic./.
