Ipoh Parade’s annual “Grant a Wish” tradition is into its seventh year since the campaign began in 2010. On Saturday, December 31, 2016 over 150 children from seven homes throughout Perak were present to witness the finale of the year’s programme.
Among the homes invited were the Salvation Army Ipoh Children’s Home, Salvation Army Ipoh Boy Home, Precious Gift Home, Vision Home, Harapan Baru, Good Shepherd Family Home and Pertubuhan Pengurusan Pusat Jagaan 1 Malaysia.
Like previous years, the “Grant a Wish” project is aimed at granting children’s wishes which they pinned on a board at the ground floor of the shopping mall. Shoppers can then place their gifts at the donation box conspicuously placed near the board from mid-November till December 30.
“The Grant A Wish campaign has been a staple of Ipoh Parade’s Christmas programme for many years now. We hope by continuing this tradition of giving, we’ll ultimately increase awareness among the public regarding the struggles of these homes,” said Centre Manager of Ipoh Parade, Chan Yu Yin.
The programme began with the screening of “The Secret Life of Pets” courtesy of GSC Cinemas followed by lunch and eventually the gift-unwrapping ceremony. A magic show by Mr Potato accompanied the lunch. Children were called on to the stage to be part of the show.
“I’d like to thank The Chicken Rice Shop, Uncle Tetsu Cheesecake, Kenny Rogers and Born & Bread for feeding us today. My utmost gratitude too goes out to My Home One, Mattress Citi and IP Event for their contributions,” he added.
Prior to that, two welfare organisations, Bethany Home and Perak Palliative Care Society were selected to receive RM10,000 each, as part of the ARA CARES (Comprehensive Assistance & Responsible Engagement Services) initiative, with support by the Tan Sri Tan Foundation (TSTF). The cheque presentation was done on Tuesday, November 29.
“It’s times like these we’re constantly humbled by and reminded of the goodness that resides in many and how together, we can make this place a better one for the entire community,” Chan concluded.
Joy filled the hearts of the children as they received their desired gifts.
Khaleeja
