Three teens gave new meaning to the expression ‘going the distance for a meal’: the three members of VOX @ Children’s Society spent their school holidays participating in the NTUC FairPrice Walk For Rice⁺ @ South East, an event jointly organised by NTUC FairPrice (FairPrice) and the South East Community Development Council.
The FairPrice Foundation donated one bowl of white rice, one bowl of brown rice and a bowl of instant oats for every 300 metres logged by participants between 28 October 2021 and 20 January 2022.
The three teens and their social worker, Ms Hong Jingying, hiked from East Coast Park to Changi Jurassic Mile on 12 November 2021, logging over 64km between them, and feeding many families in need through their effort.
It was an enjoyable experience, says Ms Erica Aw, 14. “It was a tiring hike but I really enjoyed it. I also had a great time planning the route with my fellow youth members.”
The group heard about the initiative through the Society’s Vessel Programme, which links youth members with community projects through which they can give back, and were immediately keen on doing their part, says Ms Hong, who also oversees the programme.
The Vessel programme also allows social workers to promote and develop the 5Cs of the Positive Youth Development framework among youth – Caring, Character, Competence, Confidence and Connection.
“Throughout the hike, the youth were very positive and cheered one another on,” Ms Hong adds.
