Donations for flood recovery in Hualien County have topped NT$1 billion (US$32.84 million), with nearly 90 contributions exceeding NT$1 million, the Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW) said yesterday.
The Taiwan Foundation for Disaster Relief, which operates under the MOHW, launched the fundraising drive on Sept. 25 to assist residents hit by severe flooding caused the Mataian River (馬太鞍溪) barrier lake to burst on Sept. 23.
The disaster affected more than 1,800 households in nearby townships.
Photo: CNA
As of 11:59pm on Monday, the foundation had received 285,446 donations totaling NT$1.007 billion, double its original NT$500 million goal, according to MOHW data.
Funds have been allocated under three categories — statutory relief, livelihood support and special aid — with NT$473.65 million already transferred to the MOHW for distribution through the Executive Yuan’s one-stop relief service center.
The foundation said donations continue to flow in daily, setting a new fundraising record.
Given that recovery and reconstruction will take time, the campaign will continue after its original end date of Oct. 24.
Donations can be made through bank transfer, convenience store kiosks, Line Pay or international remittance to the Taiwan Foundation for Disaster Relief’s account at the Land Bank of Taiwan, Changchun Branch (Account No. 102-005-201-966, SWIFT Code: LBOTTWTP102).
The MOHW said no handling fees will be charged.
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