A community cultural house for the Lu ethnic people in Ban Hon Commune, Tam Duong District, Lai Chau Province, was inaugurated on Thursday.

This is the first project contributed by the online walking/running programme called ‘Steps for the community’ organised by Sacombank and the Viet Nam Youth Federation.

Besides footing the construction cost of VND1 billion (US$43,523), Sacombank also donated VND30 million ($1,305) to buy equipment for it.

Through the national programme, open to everyone to participate, the bank contributes VND1,000 to a fund for each kilometre a participant walks or runs.

It is expected to raise funds to build 16 cultural houses across the country.

The first three stages of the programme held in 2020 attracted more than 75,000 participants and raised VND3 billion.

Sacombank and the federation will soon complete construction of cultural houses for the Chut people in Quang Binh, the Lo Lo in Cao Bang and the Co Lao in Ha Giang.

It plays an important role in preserving and promoting the traditions of ethnic minorities.

Cultural houses are a place for people to come and participate in cultural activities and exchange information to improve their spiritual life and strengthen solidarity, and also serve as a place to collect, store, research, and promote national cultural heritages. — VNS