Old folks’ home gets timely boost
Welfare body relies on public donations for upkeep of facility, says chairman
TELUK INTAN: A timely contribution of four wheelchairs and RM25,000 has given a boost to an old folks’ home here to continue with its good work of caring for 12 residents.
The Pertubuhan Kebajikan Warga Tua Anning Teluk Intan received the much needed aid from Star Foundation, the charitable arm of Star Media Group.
Khor Yack Chai, who is chairman of the home, said that the welfare organisation relied on public donations and charity sales for the upkeep of the facility and care of its dependents aged 60 to 85.
“It’s a constant struggle to source for funds to meet our monthly expenses.
“This generous contribution will help us a long way.
“Your help is very much appreciated,” Khor told Star Media Group deputy chairman and Star Foundation board of trustees member Tan Sri Kuan Peng Soon during a handing-over ceremony yesterday.
The home, set up in 2015, is staffed by five comprising Khor, an administrator, a nurse, a cook and an Indonesian maid.
Kuan said Star Foundation has, since its inception in 2004, donated RM15mil to various NGOs such as old folks homes and orphanages to assist them in their operating expenses, upgrading of facilities and running of existing programmes.
He revealed that in an effort to expand Star Foundation’s reach to sickly individuals and their families who are in need of financial aid, a medical fund programme was set up recently.
“The Medical Fund Programme looks out for those needing urgent medical care, especially when a hefty cost is involved,” he said.
Kuan, who is also MCA treasurer-general and Teluk Intan MCA division chief, said party grassroots leaders have been helping to spread the word about the assistance available through Star Foundation.
“This is important for us to be able to reach out to more non-English-speaking NGOs and needy individuals, especially those from smaller towns and rural areas,” he added.