SPH, SPH Foundation give S$350k to ComChest charities

Singapore

SINGAPORE Press Holdings (SPH) and SPH Foundation donated a total of S$350,000 to 20 charities under the Community Chest on Tuesday, in an annual presentation of cheques to charities.

Of the sum, S$150,000 from SPH Foundation went, for the first time, to the Special Education Financial Assistance Scheme (SPED FAS) in aid of more than 1,000 disabled and special- needs students from low-income families.

The foundation also contributed S$100,000 to 10 charities serving underprivileged children and the disabled; SPH gave another S$100,000 to 10 charities serving the elderly and disadvantaged families.

At the event held at the SPH News Centre Auditorium, a minute of silence was observed as a mark of respect for former president SR Nathan, who died on Monday night. The Singapore Chinese Orchestra (SCO), which was present for a lunch-time concert, played a rendition of Amazing Grace as tribute to the late former head of state.

Thereafter, guest of honour Lee Boon Yang, who is chairman of SPH and SPH Foundation, presented the cheque to Eric Ang, vice-chairman of the Community Chest.

Ng Ling Ling, managing director of Community Chest and assistant chief executive of the National Council of Social Service, said in an interview on the sidelines: "We are very grateful to SPH and SPH Foundation for their annual donations to Community Chest."

About 100 beneficiaries and caregivers from Lions Befrienders, The Salvation Army's Kids in Play (KIP), Shan You Counselling and Casework, and Cerebral Palsy Alliance Singapore (CPAS) were among the estimated 300 guests present. A lunch reception was held after the concert by SCO.