The mega-quake is already known to have killed more than 40,000 people and injured more than 247,645. The government is working all-out to rescue survivors and treat the injured.

Homeless victims are being sent to centers where they are cared for. People like Li received tents and other necessities such as a wok, but they received less than those who had lost relatives or were injured.

"The houses collapsed, but we still have land and hands," Li said. "We can't just sit and wait for relief, and we should save food for those who are most in need."

China's central bank and the China Banking Regulatory Commission on Monday ordered financial institutions to provide support, including extension of loan maturities, for relief and reconstruction in quake-ravaged regions.

Also on Monday, the Ministry of Finance and State Administration of Taxation announced a package of tax rebates for the hard-hit regions. Individual income taxes, property taxes and so forth will be reduced to help reconstruction.

(Xinhua News Agency May 20, 2008)