The joy of Christmas giving… with a difference!
- a community service project in 2007
by Anabel Choa

Christmas is a time when we give our loved ones gifts, and the festive mood sends everyone into a state of satiated somnolence and contented relaxation, but for seven of us from different backgrounds, the three days after Christmas last year began with a difference.

Boxing Day saw us painting houses and cleaning homes to help the less-privileged, and bringing physically challenged children out for a movie date. It was the first time for some of us, but we learnt quickly and soon everything was up and running. Planning was done before the actual project, and fundraising through selling home-baked brownies eventually netted a tidy sum to fund the expenses. Funding was settled, and lodging was provided by kind souls. Everything was set to go!

The groups set out to 'recee' the places first, traveling across the island to Bedok, Jalan Dua, and Ghim Moh to view the houses and to get to know the residents better. There was the reticent uncle who wanted his house painted a bright and cheery colour, and the auntie who had the help of an equally old friend. The next day, we started work early and set off to help clean and paint houses. But before that, we bought some groceries like fruits and biscuits for them. Then it was off to work. For some of us who do not even help out at home, it was certainly an experience when we had to mop floors and wipe windows. We also chatted with them and learnt more about their lives.

Painting the houses was equally rewarding, and it was a job of patience and steady hands as we endeavored to paint even coats without dripping paint all over the place. Two other friends joined us to help, and everyone worked uncomplainingly. The uncle even helped out, and we managed to finish painting in record time! The house looked bright and welcoming after that, and everyone was very pleased.

Besides that, we also brought 10 children from the Society for the Physically Disabled to VivoCity for a lunch and movie date! They were of varying ages and independent although they suffer from cerebral palsy, spinal bifida, dwarfism, arthrogryposis multiplex congenital, etc. We played games together, and everyone had fun splashing about in the puddles while enjoying the breeze in the open-air concept. Then, they were treated to a lunch of Burger King and everyone got to know each other better. The movie was entertaining, and it ended all too soon as the children had to return home. Everyone certainly had fun!

Personally, this trip was an eye-opener. I have never done anything like this before, and the enriching and satisfying experience will definitely have me returning for more. What particularly touched my heart was when after cleaning the house, the auntie's friend treated us to lunch. On the way there, I was struck by her thoughtfulness in noting wheelchair accessibility for her friend, and her generosity. Sometimes, it is not about what we have, but what we give that is a measure of who we are.

Anabel is a 17 year old student at Raffles Junior College. She enjoyed the experience so much that she says she will come back for more!