Coco, Addie and Xavi aged 10, 7 and 5 respectively, knocked on our office door tentatively with their mom. In accordance with safety directives, our doors are still closed but it would have been most improper if we had not welcomed them. These 3 angels had used up their Christmas gift money to purchase 6 “back-to-school” packs worth $50 each for children who needed them. Happy Christmas and wishing you every blessing of the Season. I was deeply touched by how Coco, Addie and Xavi spared a thought for children who had less, and their gesture got me thinking that we have …
Another Week Beyond – 2051
Dear Friends “What would you buy if you had a million dollars?” Ian, a Beyond intern, posed the question to siblings Nurul and Putra, aged 11 and 12, respectively. Predictably, the kids talked about nice homes, cars and perhaps not sure what wealth will bring, they said that they will hire security guards for their homes too. This hypothetical question was another make-believe activity for the children, but for Ian, he was trying to fulfil a request from their mother. She had come to him asking for help to speak to her children about their family’s financial situation. Contrary to their …
Another Week Beyond – 2050
Dear Friends We are in the midst of a study to understand the issue of food (in)security among our members. Being part of a culture where “Have you eaten?” is an innocuous greeting among people, for our members, the pleasantry is a stark reminder of their paucity. Nonetheless, polite responses such as, “Oh yes I had something earlier, thank you” or “Not yet but later when I am hungry” would be likely answers. Many adapt to their challenges and eventually accept their circumstances as normal. The United Nations’ Committee on World Food Security determines that food security exists when “all people, at …
Another Week Beyond – 2049
Dear Friends After a severe illness, Haslinda kept to herself most of the time. She was aware of our presence in her neighbourhood but never felt inclined to join the activities she was invited to. 3 months ago, a neighbour told her that we were looking for skilled seamstresses to produce face masks. With many years of experience sewing curtains, sofa covers and such before she fell ill, she decided to check out the opportunity. With the help of the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, we are evaluating our income generation projects and when asked how it has been …