In Vietnam, Machine Provides Free Rice to People During Coronavirus

A Vietnamese businessman has invented a machine that provides free rice for people out of work during the coronavirus crisis.The device operates 24 hours a day, just like a bank money machine, or ATM.

Businessman Hoang Tuan Anh set up his first rice machine in Ho Chi Minh City.

"I refer to this machine as a ‘rice ATM' because people can withdraw rice from it, assured that there are still good people out there who want to give them a second chance," Anh said.

Vietnam is under a nationwide stay-at-home order to help stop the spread of COVID-19. During the order, many small businesses have been forced to close. This has left thousands of people unable to work.

Nguyen Thi Ly is a 34-year-old mother of three. Her husband is unemployed because of the coronavirus restrictions. She said, "This rice ATM has been helpful. With this one bag of rice, we can have enough for one day."

She added, "Now, we only need other food. Our neighbors sometimes give us some leftover food, or we have instant noodles."

新闻来源：VOA