For this festive season, the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) will be bringing joy to about 350 needy homes through its year-end charity project.

Since November, all the staff at the MPA had been actively raising funds to purchase food items for these 350 elderly folks and single-parent families under the Ministry of Community Development and Sports' Public Assistance Scheme within the Tanjong Pagar GRC. Despite the economic downturn, the staff donated generously for a good cause. A total of about $4,900 was raised among the staff. As a show of support for the staff's efforts, the MPA contributed a sum of $10,000 towards the project.

Each food parcel comprises basic items like rice, sugar, beverage mix, condensed milk, instant noodles, biscuits and washing powder. In addition, each home will receive a $20 NTUC Fair Price Gift Voucher.

About 150 MPA staff have volunteered to pack and distribute the food parcels and gift vouchers. The distribution will be carried out on 19 and 20 December to the 350 homes located within the Tanjong Pagar GRC.

Since its formation in February 1996, the MPA has been actively assisting the less fortunate in our community. Charities that have benefited from our community programmes include Fei Yue Family Service Centre, Children's Society Convalescent Home, Children's Charities Association of Singapore, Children's Cancer Foundation, Autistic Association of Singapore, Care Community Services Society and the Boys' Brigade in Singapore.

End of release.