Murugiah (left) with the children who gleefully show money packets they received ahead of the Deepavali celebrations at Caring Society Complex in Jalan Utama. — Photos: LIM BENG TATT/The Star
THE less fortunate are not forgotten during Deepavali.
About 150 people received cash aid and festive essential items at a charity event organised by Penang Hindu Association (PHA) and Klinik Derma Sivasanta (KDS).
The initiative held at the Caring Society Complex was meant to spread joy and support those in need.
Among the recipients was cleaner B. Mahendran, 61, who described the hampers he received as a kind gesture from the organisers.
“With the essentials, my wife can prepare delicious food for Deepavali.
“The contribution can at least ease my burden as the sole breadwinner in the family.”
K. Jayanthi, 51, said the hamper arrived at the perfect time, as she had planned to go grocery shopping for Deepavali.
Rayer (centre, in white) and Lingeshwaran (centre, in dark blue) presenting Deepavali goodies at the charity event in Penang.
She expressed her appreciation for the timely support that would help ease her financial burden during the festive season.
“I can prepare special dishes for my children who will be coming home during Deepavali,” said the single mother who works as a cleaner at a clinic in Bandar Baru Air Itam.
PHA chairman Datuk P. Murugiah said the association had identified 150 hardcore poor families from Penang, Kedah and northern Perak.
“Each family received 35 grocery items, ranging from rice to cooking oil. The hampers are worth RM150 each.
“We also gave them goodie bags with Deepavali snacks and sweets in it.
“Each family is also given RM50 to buy other festive-related items,” he said.
Additionally, the recipients were treated to a vegetarian meal.
Murugiah also expressed his gratitude to Penang government for its support in the association’s charity programmes.
The event was officiated by Jelutong MP and Penang Hindu Endowment Board (PHEB) chairman RSN Rayer, who praised PHA and KDS for organising the event.
“There are many good souls in Penang, and among them are those running the PHA and KDS who work hard to ensure the success of such events,” he said.
Rayer also thanked the donors and urged other non-governmental organisations to emulate PHA and KDS in bringing joy to the lives of those in need, especially during festive seasons.
MIC presented RM3,000 in donation to PHA at the event.
Also present were Penang welfare committee chairman Lim Siew Khim and Senator Dr RA Lingeshwaran, among other Indian leaders from Penang.
