Thanh Niên newspaper's five-year journey supporting orphans

In September 2021, as the COVID-19 pandemic began to recede, news of 1,517 children losing one or both parents sent shockwaves through Vietnam. In response, the editorial board of Thanh Niên newspaper immediately convened an emergency meeting and launched the "Accompanying Children on Their Life's Journey" program on September 16, 2021. This initiative was conceived not merely as a charitable campaign, but as a heartfelt tribute to those lost.

Thanh Niên newspaper, in collaboration with various organizations and generous individuals, committed to supporting the educational costs for these children until they reach the age of 18 or complete their university education. Following the editorial board's directive, reporters fanned out across quarantined areas to reach families affected by COVID-19, providing urgent assistance and gathering information for long-term support.

To date, the program has facilitated hundreds of emergency financial aid distributions to nearly 2,000 children. Long-term support agreements have been signed for almost 500 children orphaned by COVID-19 and an additional 86 children affected by Typhoon Yagi (the third typhoon of 2024 in Northern Vietnam). Numerous other activities have been organized for the children's benefit.

As of May 2026, the program has successfully mobilized over 76.2 billion VND (approximately $3 million USD). More than 2,200 children have received assistance, with a significant focus on comprehensive support for 550 children until they turn 18. Hundreds of scholarships have also been awarded to help these children pursue higher education and build a brighter future.

Beyond financial and educational aid, the program prioritizes the children's physical and mental well-being. This includes regular health check-ups, summer trips, and special events for Children's Day and the Mid-Autumn Festival. The "Accompanying Children on Their Life's Journey" program serves as a vital support system, offering not only material and spiritual care but also a space for these young individuals to share their experiences and document their growth, from academic pursuits to future aspirations. Lâm Tâm Như, a third-year student at Phạm Ngọc Thạch University of Medicine, shared how her life changed dramatically after the pandemic, moving from a protected childhood to facing immense challenges after her father's death.

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This is not just a "charitable campaign," but a heartfelt tribute to those lost.