(This is reproduced from the posting I made on my Facebook Page on 30th November 2024.)

Is charity easy? Supposedly you get donations and volunteers coming in to freely help out. I tell people to try running a children’s home and they will find out how quickly their superficial theory crumbles. We’re not talking about the funds needed to maintain the premises, feed and educate the children and bring them up in a conducive atmosphere.

The underprivileged children often come from toxic environments. They may have been abused, neglected, or are parentless. Either that or their guardians or relatives have given up on them due to other priorities or the kids’ own misbehaviors. By the time they come to our abode, they most likely will come with an unhappy baggage and a troubled past.

My team at the Hiichiikok Home for Children, headed by capable but overstretched Frieda Ngui, has to deal with young inmates who might have problems related to health, psychological and most often, disciplinary issues. Resolving them can be tedious and frustrating, involving regulators, caregivers, psychiatrists, and school authorities.

Our self-funding foundation doesn’t seek donations, but we welcome friends and volunteers to come and help guide and motivate the 35 children currently under our care(pic). But amidst the consistent challenges, we have come to realise the power of compassion and empathy that we need to possess as we aspire to be worthy philanthropists. It takes a lot of determination to watch out for the least, the last and the lost.

Call it fate – we believe most of these troubled souls come to our doorsteps for a reason. They did not choose their unfortunate circumstances. But given the right supervision and guidance, they can rise above the adversity, overcome their inner demons and grow up to be well educated and decent members of our society.

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