River Hongbao dedicates night to families

SINGAPORE - The River Hongbao 2014 comittee dedicated a special night to families on February 1.

Working with the Ministry of Social and Family Development, Family Night was held in conjunction with the 20th anniversary of the International Year of the Family (IYF).

Minister for Social and Family Development, Mr Chan Chun Sing, graced the event as the Guest-of-Honour.

Visitors at the event can do their bit for charity as they make a wish at the wishing well for good health, happiness and prosperity. All of the money collected at the wishing well will go towards the Community Chest to help families in difficulty. Donations this year will also be matched dollar-for-dollar by the Government.

Proceeds made by BliSSE, a social enterprise selling unique Chinese New Year trinkets and crafts hand-made specially by 16-year-old Sebastian Ong who has mild autism, will also go towards helping the needy and those with special needs.

Three local families also took the stage at Saturday's event. Winner of talent show "U've Got Talent", Family Hip Hop Group, wowed the crowd with their high energy hip hop dance moves.

Woodlands Combeatz, a family percussion ensemble and People's Association's Woodlands Family Life Champion, elevated the festive mood with their uplifting rhythms and synchronised drumbeats. People's Association's Nee Soon South Family Life Champion, Family Ukelele Group, also performed in an ungplugged musical session.

ljessica@sph.com.sg