The Disaster Relief Fund has granted $5 million to World Vision to undertake a relief project for Sichuan earthquake victims.

A disbursement of $311 million was recently made for the Central Government relief headquarters, the Amity Foundation and the Red Cross.

Today's grant has been made possible under a fast-track mechanism formed on the advice of the Disaster Relief Fund Advisory Committee for the Government to process applications from relief organisations for grants to offer relief to the quake victims more promptly.

The relief agency has to submit an evaluation report and audited account on the use of the grant after the relief project has been completed.

Fundraising auction

Hongkong Post will hold its first fundraising auction of stamp products and banknotes to garner donations for quake victims at 11am May 24 at the General Post Office, Central. Sotheby's Hong Kong will donate two times the total reserve price of the auction items.

The auction items will be displayed at the GPO from tomorrow. For more information click here or call 2921 2222.

Up to 5pm today the Social Welfare Department had received 147 applications, and granted 104, for public subscription permits to raise funds for quake victims. To view the list click here.

Logistic support

Two fire fighters flew to Sichuan today to offer logistic support for the Hong Kong search and rescue team in Hanwang, Mianzhu. They took 1.5 tonnes of equipment, including medical supplies, search and rescue tools, and drinking water.

Up to 5pm today the Immigration Department had received 126 calls for assistance and 448 enquiries on contacting Hong Kong people on the Mainland.

Of the 101 Hong Kong people reported missing, 96 have re-established contact. The Immigration Department and the Office of the Hong Kong SAR Government in Beijing will maintain close ties with Mainland authorities to follow up on the remaining cases and render help to Hong Kong people in need.

Those who need help can call (852) 1868.