Homes call on public to interact with residents this CNY
PETALING JAYA: The Chinese New Year festive season is a time when welfare homes and orphanages often receive gifts, both in cash and kind, from well-wishers, businessmen and corporate companies.
However, while those staying in these homes are grateful for the goodies they receive, they cherish the personal visits made by the donors more than anything that money can buy.
“Beyond donations, spending time with the children matters. When they interact with the public, they feel cared for and develop hope for the future,” said Guardian Angels Home deputy director Robert Ong.
While the public often donates festive food and daily necessities during the season, Ong said these items carry emotional value beyond practicality.
“These festive foods allow the children to celebrate like any other family.
“It gives them a sense of belonging and joy during the festivities,” he said, adding that donations, especially cash contributions, have declined since last year due to economic challenges, making the festive period even more critical for welfare homes.
“Chinese New Year is usually our first and most important source of funds for the year. If contributions are limited, we have to organise more fundraising activities later to cover basic expenses,” he said when contacted.
He explained that most welfare homes rely on a few window periods annually for external support, with Chinese New Year being the most significant, followed by temple celebrations and limited year-end corporate social responsibility programmes.
Guardian Angels, which cares for vulnerable children, also distributes surplus food monthly to about 100 single-parent and underprivileged families, as well as to other welfare homes, drug rehabilitation centres and refugee schools.
Sunshine Disability Welfare Home director Jenny Min said the centre is currently in need of food and grocery items, as well as financial assistance to cover rental costs for the month.
“We are facing some financial struggles, especially with rent. Any donation from the public would be greatly appreciated.
“Personal visits from well-wishers are most welcome. The residents will feel happy and valued to have people accompany them, especially during Chinese New Year,” she added.
Yap Yoke Moey of the Sang Riang Senior Citizens’ Home in Triang, Pahang, said supplies often arrive early in the festive season, particularly snacks, cakes, meat and festive clothing.
“With 485 elderly residents, we do receive steady supplies, especially during the Chinese New Year,” she said, adding that basic needs are generally met.
However, Yap stressed that companionship is just as important as material donations.
“We welcome visitors to come, talk to the elderly, take photos and spend time with them.
“When they see more people, they feel happy and valued,” she said.
