Smiles were seen on the faces of squatters living off the streets at Jalan Dato’ Onn Jaafar here in town when approached by volunteers of Pertubuhan Kebajikan Ukhuwah Masyarakat Prihatin Perak (Ukhuwah), an NGO, who contributed food and drinks to them.
Some 20 Ukhuwah volunteers along with TimSuper Chapter Perak helped the squatters dwelling around town as an act of care to the unfortunate individuals following the present Movement Control Order.
According to the chairperson of Ukhuwah, Norhaslinda Zakaria, the contribution was mobilised to approach the group of individuals who don’t receive adequate attention and at the same time, deliver information regarding prevention of COVID-19 transmission.
She added that the 50 homeless individuals received packs containing face masks, slippers, shower towels, biscuits, packet drinks and mineral water bottles besides secondhand clothes.
“The programme is focused at locations in town where the squatters are frequently seen, such as the back of The Store and subsequently nearby areas.
“The small contribution is to prevent them from starving and simultaneously, to care for their personal hygiene in controlling the spread of COVID-19 together,” she said.
Norhaslinda who’s also the Exco for Srikandi (Women’s Wing) of the Malaysian United Indigenous Party (BERSATU), also said that the caring mission will be followed by contribution of blankets, mattresses and pillows to the group of individuals.
“This is due to most of them having to sleep on only boxes or newspaper sheets while enduring the cold of night.
“Some of the squatters appealed for the said items. Thus, hopefully, Ukhuwah and TimSuper are able to obtain the necessities.
“Meanwhile, any corporations or individuals who would like to lend a hand may do so via Ukhuwah account 08095010010700 (Bank Islam) or email at ukhuwahprihatinperak@gmail.com,” she added.
Rosli Mansor
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