Children from less-privileged households on Sunday (Dec 21) received backpacks containing stationery and books to prepare them for the new school term.
Youth volunteers from the Sembawang Community Centre distributed backpacks to 91 children between the ages of four and 16 as part of a new initiative aimed at giving back to those less fortunate. The children came from 45 families living in the Sembawang estate – with most residing in two-room flats.
National Development Minister and Sembawang GRC MP Khaw Boon Wan was also present to assist with the distribution.
The backpacks, stationery and books were donated by residents and the children who received them appreciated the gesture. “It helps me prepare for the new school year which starts next year. The items that they give will help me in my studies which I can use to prepare for my PSLE,” said Dasuki Md Nasir. The 12-year-old will be starting Primary 6 next year.
“We also wanted our volunteers to be able see what the needy children in Singapore are like because I think in Singapore, we’re pretty much shielded,” said 24-year-old Singapore Management University graduate Gillian Goh, chairperson of the Sembawang CC Youth Executive Committee. “We really wanted our volunteers to experience that as well and kind of grow from the experience.”
Source: CNA