PETALING JAYA: After a decade of providing for the poor, disabled and homeless, Tony Lian remains committed to his life’s purpose of helping the most vulnerable in whatever way he can.
Having established Food4U in 2015 as a donor initiative, the now 76-year-old pensioner’s project has expanded to provide free meals, shelter, medical care, and groceries to those that need it the most.
Having experienced the joy of helping others from a young age, Lian now spends his time dedicated to running a non-governmental organisation (NGO) five days a week to reach those in dire need.
“At an old age myself, I deeply empathise with the struggles of the elderly who have been abandoned or neglected, as it fuels my passion to rescue and support them however possible.
“We will continue to serve the community as best we can by collaborating closely with local authorities and shelter centres to provide free meals and monthly medical care,” he told The Star.
Lian, fondly known as Uncle Tony, said Food4U currently has 15 regular volunteers who distribute free meals at various shelter centres during lunch and dinner on weekdays, many of whom are selfless retirees themselves.
“We also deliver necessary groceries to the poor and underprivileged on the weekends.
“It is thanks to the generosity of volunteers like them and our supporters, who believe in our mission to care for the less fortunate, that Food4U has been able to sustain its efforts,” he said, adding that they also receive donations from other organisations.
He added that Food4U has also grown to provide shelter and psychiatric aid to those with mental illnesses who roam the streets, as they pose a risk to themselves and the public.
“We have taken steps to rescue and offer shelter to these individuals, ensuring they receive necessary psychiatric treatment and medication whenever we learn of a case,” he said.
Lian added his commitment to directly assist and feed the hungry homeless population would not waver so long as he himself is healthy.
“As long as my health permits, I will continue this work and aim to pass it on to the younger generation, instilling in them the understanding that love and care are boundless and timeless.
“I urge the younger generation to recognise their responsibility in caring for their elders and not to neglect them due to age or medical conditions. Remember, we too will age someday. Treat others as you would like to be treated,” he added.
