The second Bong Ca Cuoc Doi (The Shadow of Life) programme, to be broadcast live on HCM City Television’s HTV9 channel, will call for support from social and religious organizations, individuals and agencies.

Donations will be used to buy presents, prepare meals, build houses and cover medical check-ups, as well as burial expenses for the elderly. It will also go to support social welfare centres in the city.

Some 2,000 elderly are expected to benefit from the programme co-organised by the municipal Red Cross Chapter, HCM Television and Vietnam Media Development Joint Stock Co.

The event is part of activities to mark the United Nations’ International Day for Older Persons (October 1).

Last year, the event raised more than VND2 billion to assist 3,500 senior citizens who live in social welfare homes managed by the city or who live alone and receive welfare payments from the Government.

HCM City is home to 7,864 older people who are living in social welfare centres or receiving state aid.