Welcoming strangers into her home for heat relief

Witnessing construction workers struggling to rest under trees in 40 degrees C heat, Tran Thi My Duc transformed the first floor of her house into a midday sanctuary, inviting them to stay during midday.

For over a week, the first floor of Tran Thi My Duc's three-story home, located in Thuan Hoa ward, has become a midday refuge for nearly 10 construction workers. Duc, 43, extended the invitation on 25/5, as temperatures in Hue climbed to 39-40 degrees C.

"Initially, they declined, worried about their dirty clothes and the potential impact on my property," Duc recounted. "It took several attempts to persuade them, and they only agreed the following day."

The first floor, typically rented out for tutoring classes, remains unused during midday and early afternoon, Duc explained. She provides fans, drinking water, and restroom access for the workers. Occasionally, she also prepares meals and tea for the group.

Construction workers invited to lunch by Tran Thi My Duc, 2/6. Photo: Provided by subject

Phan Canh Hien, 50, a member of the construction team, explained that his home is over 20 km from the site, forcing them to seek shade under trees for midday naps. However, on days reaching 40 degrees C, many cannot sleep, often experiencing dizziness from heatstroke. "During intense heat, we have to go to a coffee shop to rest and preserve energy for the afternoon shift," he said.

Hien added that Duc had offered the group an air-conditioned room, but they declined. They preferred to stay in the outer section, aiming to save electricity and protect the classroom's electronic equipment.

Le Thi Huong, 46, a team member from Quang Dien commune, Hue, emphasized the benefit of a cool space, allowing her a complete midday nap after four hours of work. "Many of us are older, some with underlying health issues," Huong noted. "Having a place to rest during this intense heat is a significant relief."

On the midday of 2/6, Tran Thanh Uyen, 28, a teacher at the center, prepared nearly 10 portions of Quang noodles for the construction workers. Uyen, who has worked with Duc for many years, regularly participates in local community support initiatives. "I want to help Duc ease some of the burden for these workers," Uyen explained.