Vietnam Delivers 1.5M Lunar New Year Gifts to Families

Millions of Vietnamese families facing hardship are receiving special Lunar New Year gifts this month, thanks to a massive nationwide campaign bringing hope and celebration to those who need it most.

The Vietnam Red Cross Society launched its "Humanitarian Tet" campaign in early February, aiming to deliver 1.5 million gift packages worth more than $28 million. Recipients include poor and near-poor households, people with disabilities, elderly people without family support, orphans, and communities affected by natural disasters.

The effort goes far beyond just handing out packages. From February 2 to 9, communities across Vietnam hosted humanitarian markets, traditional rice cake wrapping events, and folk games to bring neighbors together and celebrate the holiday as one.

The campaign builds on earlier government action. In January, national leaders issued directives resulting in millions of additional gift packages valued between $11 and $23 each reaching policy beneficiaries and people with meritorious service to the nation. The government also provided 13,400 tons of rice to people in need.

Cities across Vietnam joined the effort with their own resources. Hanoi distributed 1.16 million gift packages worth $22 million, while Ho Chi Minh City handed out 210,000 packages ranging from $40 to $400 each. Hai Phong reached 99,000 people with meritorious service during the holiday period.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Le Hoai Trung captured the spirit during a gift distribution visit in Hue city. "Although the material value of each gift is not large, we hope it conveys the affection and concern of the Party and the State and will help people enjoy a warmer, more fulfilling Tet," he said.

The Ripple Effect

Local communities amplified the national campaign by mobilizing neighbors, businesses, and benefactors to contribute. In Hanoi's Kien Hung ward, grassroots organizers assembled 200 gift packages worth $80 each, plus additional in-kind donations.

Hoang Thi Huyen Trang, who led the Kien Hung effort, said the campaign reflects "the care, solidarity and commitment of local organizations to social security." The collaboration between government programs and community action created a support network reaching every corner of the country.

This coordinated response during one of Vietnam's most important cultural celebrations shows how national policy and local generosity can work together to ensure no one celebrates alone.