Several local TV channels have raised more than NT$65 million (US$2.2 million) through a telethon for the reconstruction of Kaohsiung after petrochemical explosions ripped through the city on July 31st. A host of celebrities, athletes and politicians fielded calls during the event.
The explosions killed 30 people and injured over 300.
Celebrities including Taiwanese girl group S.H.E., singers Elva Hsiao, Jam Hsiao and A-Lin urged the public to donate money to assist with disaster relief and reconstruction efforts in the southern city. Vice President Wu Den-yih, Legislative President Wang Jin-pyng and Taipei Mayor Hau Lung-bin and several athletes were also among the participants.
As of Thursday, a special account set up by the Kaohsiung's Social Affairs Bureau had received 13,900 donations exceeding NT$2.38 billion (US$79.6 million) in total, including many from major businesses.
In the United States, Taiwanese expatriate groups in and around New York and Los Angeles have also launched fund-raising campaigns in support of Kaohsiung.