Deepavali hampers for the poor

FOR 73 families, their Deepavali preparations this year came with huge relief in the form of hampers from the Penang Hindu Mahajana Sangam.

The hampers, worth RM70 each, contained household items such as rice, sugar and noodles.

Sangam president M. Neelamegam, 63, said the recipients were from poor and underprivileged families as well as single mothers in the state.

“Although these hampers are for those who celebrate Deepavali, we also gave it out to two needy Chinese families.

“Apart from Deepavali, we also give out aid during other festive seasons about two to three times a year. All these hampers are from the members’ donations,” he said after the presentation at Ghandhiji Ashram (hall) in Waterfall Road recently.

He added that each recipient also received a small amount of ‘angpow’ in the yearly event.

The presentation of the hampers was done by Penang Deputy Chief Minister II Dr P. Ramasamy.

Earlier, the recipients and their family members were given a breakfast treat.

Neelamegam hoped the public could donate to the repair work of the hall’s roof which cost about RM150,000.

Those interested can visit Ghandhiji Ashram or call Neelamegam at 016-4157990.