COVID-19 may have limited the amount of time spent outside, but thanks to Amazon Singapore, the indoor facilities of Sunbeam Place @ Children’s Society (SBP) have been turned into a space of limitless learning and adventure.

In a project six months in the making, the SBP and Amazon Singapore teams completely transformed the centre’s computer lab and multi-purpose hall, revealing an all-new look in February 2022.

The initiative is part of Amazon’s Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education outreach program, and included the upgrading of SBP’s IT network and wireless access points, renovation of the lab and hall, and installation of a sound system and portable stage. 

Amazon Singapore also donated workstations, laptops, and headsets to complete our residents’ digital experience.

Mae*, 12, who has been an SBP resident since 2019 says she can’t wait to use the new facilities.

“The computer lab and multipurpose hall look so stylish and modern. I am excited to learn coding and 3D printing at the computer lab and sewing and cooking at the multi-purpose hall. Especially now that we don’t get to go outside much, I’m happy to have cool places to hang out within the Home,” she says.

Transformation in progress: Volunteers from Amazon in the Community hard at work

Mr Cayden Woo, Deputy Director/Head of Home, says he is grateful for the support of Amazon Singapore in this much-needed upgrade for SBP: “It has been a wonderful experience working with Amazon Singapore’s team throughout the renovation. They were hands-on from the get-go and were very understanding and patient despite the restrictions and challenges. We look forward to continuing this meaningful relationship.”

Wishing the Society the best in the important work that it does, Ms Emily Perkin, APAC Lead for Amazon in the Community, says: “Amazon is honoured to have been able to support this project and we very much hope that the newly renovated space will make a difference for the children at Sunbeam Place. A huge thank you to the fantastic team at Singapore Children’s Society.”

Amazon Singapore also sponsored over 20 youth beneficiaries and staff from various centres of Children’s Society to attend the Amazon Cyber Robotics Challenge hosted by Science Centre Singapore in June and July 2021.

“We look forward to extending the programme to more beneficiaries, allowing them to hone their creativity and improve their problem-solving skills while sparking an interest in STEM,” adds Mr Woo. 

On behalf of Children’s Society, thank you Amazon Singapore for believing in our cause and bringing smiles to our children and youth in need!

As a charity that is largely self-funded, Singapore Children’s Society relies heavily on the support of organisations like Amazon Singapore to sustain our work. If your company would like to make a difference and explore a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) partnership with Children’s Society, do reach out to us at frd.corporate@childrensociety.org.sg. 

*Name has been changed to protect the identity of our beneficiary