Members from the Richmond Sunset Rotary Club have initiated a fundraising drive to help the citizens of Henan province after deadly floods engulfed the central area of mainland China.
Fundraising booths will be set up at the Richmond Night Market from Aug. 13 - 15 at 7 p.m. to raise money to support those struggling in the tragedy.
Zhengzhou, the capital city of China’s Henan province, was swamped by flooding after a year's worth of rain fell in just three days. The Chinese government authorities reported that at least 56 people have lost their lives and about 10,000 people have been evacuated.
Some Chinese media described the rainfall as "unseen in the last 1,000 years."
All proceeds raised from the Night Market booths will go to helping the citizens of Henan by providing them with fresh water, food, sanitizers and clothing, according to Shasha Liu, a member of Richmond Sunset.
Liu said some of her Canadian friends have deep connections with Henan, which is one of the most populated provinces in China and holds many historical monuments. The rainfall burst the river banks and destroyed the public transport system.
"As Rotarians, we believe everyone is connected in this world. Therefore, even if some natural disasters or tragedies take place in other countries, we would still step up to help. Help and love should have no boundaries. I hope more people can join this journey to bring safety to citizens in Henan," said Liu.
The Rotarians will also give out dozens of handmade teddy bears made by Richmond seniors at the fundraising event.
Meanwhile, Liu noted that other fundraising events are being hosted by different rotary clubs in Metro Vancouver to support people grappling with the Lytton fire.
