KUCHING, July 27: The Salvation Army with partnerships from several sponsors has leapt into action to assist those affected by the Covid-19 pandemic in Kuching and Bintulu.
In a statement today, the non-governmental organisation (NGO) said a total of 512 sets of food parcels have been distributed and 1,410 hot meals have been given around Kuching to-date since June 1.
“Taka Patisserie, one of the largest bakery chains in the State, contributed 330 sets of fresh bread and cake loaves to bring some cheer to the underprivileged families.
“Two local hawker owners each donated 100 sets of nasi lemak and 200 sets of chicken rice, and a group of concerned individual donors raised funds to purchase 780 sets of kampua mee,” it said.
In Bintulu, 136 sets of food parcels have been distributed to impoverished households thanks to contributions by Lian Hak Company and KHY Recycle Industries Sdn Bhd and individual sponsors to date.
“The local branch of the Rotary Club recently sponsored 380 sets of freshly made meals to families and individuals in dire straits,” it added.
This effort was part of the Salvation Army’s mission to provide emergency aid to six localities/towns alongside Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Ipoh and Melaka.
With partnerships from several corporate and individual sponsors, the food parcels included rice, cooking oil, noodles, canned food, biscuits, malt chocolate powder and fresh produce to enable these households to feed their families while waiting for the opportunity to return to work.
According to the Salvation Army regional officer Major Francis Ng, due to current economic and living conditions, some disadvantaged individuals are not able to stay at home.
“They are also not able to purchase groceries online because they are unable to make online payments. Due to various reasons, the marginalised communities in our midst really need our help to remain at home.
“We are extremely grateful to our friends, both corporate sponsors and individual donors who rallied together in this time of need to contribute various items to lighten the burden of those in need,” he said.
He also said there are corporations and individuals that would like to contribute to communities in need, but they do not have direct access to these people.
“Therefore, the Salvation Army can help bridge the gap, to share hope where it is needed the most. Because of our vast network, we can also help to connect with local communities in need — we are open to any opportunity to collaborate with concerned individuals and corporations to provide food parcels to the truly needy.
“As beacons of hope, we will continue our food parcel and fresh meals programme until all Movement Control Order (MCO) restrictions are lifted and when people can resume work,” he added.
For more information on how to be part of The Salvation Army’s work, please send an e-mail to The Salvation Army Malaysia: pr.malaysia@smm.salvationarmy.org or visit The Salvation Army Malaysia Facebook page. — DayakDaily
