Children putting up Christmas decorations at the Salvation Army Penang Children’s Home in Logan Road. – CHAN BOON KAI/The Star
RESIDENTS of The Salvation Army Penang Children’s Home in George Town have not been forgotten this holiday season.
Home manager Becky Lurence said people had been reaching out to offer assistance.
She said many theme park operators came forward with offers, adding that most of the offers were for visits to theme parks throughout the country.
“For practical and safety reasons, we have decided to remain in Penang and could only take up the invitation offered by the Escape Theme Park in Teluk Bahang.
“The children, however, are excited as it is a dream come true for them.
“They just want a day to have fun together and to create treasured memories, especially after being cooped up during the Covid-19 pandemic.
“We will be taking all 19 boys and three staff members along with us for the visit,” said Lurence, who also expressed her gratitude for the offers.
The children had recently shared with The Star that their wish was to visit a theme park during the school holidays.
Lurence said there had been others who reached out to offer tuition classes for the children.
“We are in the midst of planning the classes that will begin next year,” she said.
Lurence, however, said the home still needs essential groceries and would appreciate offers of items like fresh fruits and vegetables.
“We would also be grateful for one set of new clothing, school uniforms and shoes for each child when the new school term begins in March,” she added.
On the Christmas front, the children have events lined up right up to the big day.
“We have been invited to perform Christmas carols at several hotels and the homes of our supporters,” said Lurence.
Currently, the home houses 19 residents aged between seven and 17.
Most of the children have parents who are unable to care for them to due to poverty, health issues or incarceration or because they are unable to provide a space for the children to grow and learn.
