Some 5,896 households in 69 poorest districts nationwide have received one breeding cow each worth VND7 million (USD338) from the Vietnam Red Cross under the “Cow bank” charity programme. 

This was announced at a conference on December 21 to review the 2011 programme.

The programme has so far raised a total of VND41.2 billion (USD1.96 million) from the SMS donation campaign and international aid for the “Cow bank” programme which will be continued in 2012.

Speaking at the conference, Vice President and General Secretary of the Vietnam Red Cross Doan Van Thai said the cows were in good condition and ready to generate income for the families, helping them reduce poverty.

After handing over the cows to beneficiaries, the Red Cross has coordinated with other agencies to give rearing directions to recipients, ensuring the best development of the cows.