In support of local humanitarian efforts, some 140 golfers took to the greens today, raising over $350,000 at the Singapore Red Cross Charity Golf at the Singapore Island Country Club (New Course, Island Location).
Their philanthropic efforts were lauded by President Tony Tan Keng Yam, distinguished Patron of the Singapore Red Cross, who graced the dinner reception as Guest-of-Honour and presented certificates of appreciation to corporate partners such as the Keppel Group and Oxley Holdings. President was also warmly welcomed to the Red Cross Movement at his first attendance to a Singapore Red Cross event after taking high office.
Singapore Red Cross Chairman Mr Tee Tua Ba noted in his speech, “Even in an affluent society like Singapore, there is a community among the sick, elderly and disabled who need our support. It is through the generous contributions of our partners like you, that we are able to fulfil our mission in protecting human life and dignity, relieving human suffering and responding to emergencies.”
Mr Tee also took the opportunity to share the Singapore Red Cross’ plans in the coming year, “Looking ahead, we will be building on a ration drop programme to provide food and other essential supplies for the most vulnerable families in our community. We will also intensify our involvement, not only in the provision of training, but in the provision of first aid to the community, like being on first aid duty at community events and providing first aid at the East Coast Park.”
The golfers and guests responded warmly to the charity auction, raising funds for these programmes. After the announcement of the much-awaited tournament results and the presentation of golf prizes by the Organising Committee, the event was capped off with a lucky draw.
Since 1993, the Red Cross Charity Golf tournaments have been organised annually to raise funds for local services such as the Red Cross Home for the Disabled which provides long-term residential and respite care to severely disabled children and adults; the Red Cross Non-Emergency Ambulance Service which helps to meet the transport needs of elderly going for their medical appointments; as well as First Aid and Disaster Management training for volunteers who play a significant role during times of disasters.
The SRC is also involved extensively in providing relief and reconstruction efforts to countries affected by natural disasters. Some of the recent relief efforts include the Japan Earthquake and Tsunami and the SEA Flood Appeal. The SEA Flood Appeal which will continue till 30 November, was launched to raise funds for the survivors for the flood situations in Cambodia, Thailand, Laos, Philippines and Vietnam. The money will be used for their immediate relief and rehabilitation efforts. For more information on the reconstruction efforts of the Japan Earthquake and Tsunami disaster and the SEA Flood Appeal, please visit the www.redcross.org.sg.