The Vietnam Association of Victims of Agent Orange (AO)/dioxin (VAVA) on February 25 launched a 55-day charitable texting program to support the sufferers. Under the program, which runs through April 19, an individual can donate VND 18,000 ($0.8) to AO victims by sending a message reading ‘DACAM’ to the national humanitarian portal 1400. Since its launch five years ago, the program has mobilized around VND 13 billion ($580,000) from over 700,000 messages delivered to 1400, according to VAVA President Senior Lieutenant General Nguyen Van Rinh. The money has been distributed to VAVA sub-organizations at localities to construct rehabilitation centers for AO victims and support the lives of those living in difficulties. The VAVA President also announced that a centre providing social protection, caring, rehabilitation, education and vocational training for AO victims will be inaugurated in Yen Binh Commune, Thach That District in Hanoi on March 10. On the occasion, the VAVA also unveiled Agent Orange Magazine, successor to the Agent Orange Bulletin. The magazine provides readers with Party guidelines, State policies and laws as well as the all-round efforts from the entire Party and people to overcome the consequences of toxic chemicals in Vietnam. It also introduces experiences and models in caring and supporting AO/dioxin victims as well as exemplary AO/dioxin victims. (Nhan Dan Feb 25 – The People)
