Tan (7th from left) and Cheah (on her left) at the presentation. With them are Rose Charities Malaysia project chairman Goh Lay Dee (fourth from left), Quantum Metals founder Datuk Lim Khong Soon (in black), Rose Charities members and representatives of welfare homes. — LIM BENG TATT/The Star
ROSE Charities, with its theme “1,000 Cheers and Smiles” in mind, handed over 1,000 hampers to the needy in Penang.
The initiative for 25 welfare homes and other groups was launched by Tan Lean Kee, the wife of Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
Rose Charities president Datuk Lawrence Cheah said,“We are aware of the challenges faced by the less fortunate.
“The (Covid-19) pandemic has exacerbated their difficulties, making it even more critical for us to lighten their burden.”
Cheah thanked Quantum Metals for sponsoring the hampers.
“Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those who are struggling,” he said at the event at the Quantum Metals office in George Town.
Tan, in her speech, said: “We are blessed to be living in a community that cares deeply for those in need.”
She said the state had implemented several initiatives to address the needs of the B40 group and the homeless such as affordable housing, the Rent to Own Scheme and social welfare programmes.
“Soup kitchens and shelters have also given a helping hand, and the state government is looking into more active collaborations with non-governmental groups.”
Representatives from the homes and assemblymen’s offices collected the hampers worth RM80 each, with a second batch to be given in the future.
