A little girl lets Fatimah (left) and Toh Puan Norkiah check out the red shoes she has chosen. — Photo by Jefferey Mostapa
KUCHING: Sixty eight children from the Mile 12 Children’s Home here and Sri Aman’s Datuk Ajibah Abol Children’s Home were treated to a shopping spree for shoes at Boulevard Shopping Mall yesterday.
The annual treat, which was supported by the Welfare, Women and Family Development Ministry, was a gift from Toh Puan Norkiah, wife of the former head of state, to bring joy to the less fortunate children during the festive season.
Minister Datuk Fatimah Abdullah said the treat was part of an effort to make sure vulnerable children in the community were able to share the joy during the festive season.
“We want to allow these vulnerable children, who come from a disadvantaged background, to also feel and share the joy and fun of the festivities,” she said.
The two shelter homes provide for orphans, abandoned and abused children, as well as destitute children.
“Children are the ones who get excited and happy when it comes to the holiday festive season, so by giving, it allows us to share their joy too,” she added.
Fatimah also welcomed and encouraged contributions from private corporations and individuals to support these children.
“We hope everyone, especially the private sector, can play a part in putting a smile on the faces of these vulnerable children as well as the less fortunate people in our community,” Fatimah said.
The act of reaching out to those in need, she pointed out, should not be confined to festive seasons only but hopefully all year round.
“We hope to see more contributions to support the education and well-being of these children,” she added.
The less fortunate children from throughout Sarawak will have the opportunity to celebrate breaking of fast with a sumptuous dinner throughout the holy month of Ramadan and there will also be various upcoming activities during Hari Raya Aidilfitri.
Fatimah revealed that children who still have their parents or close family members like grandparents were encouraged and allowed to go home for the Hari Raya celebrations.
“We also encourage families to open their doors and welcome these children home to allow them to feel the warmth and merriment of the festive and holiday season,” she said.
Foster families interested to take part in the holiday spirit of charity can approach the ministry for more information.