Seniors Celebrate Chinese New Year with Joyful Lunch at Volunteer’s Home

Despite living alone or with limited family connections, 30 seniors had an unforgettable time celebrating Chinese New Year last Friday (January 24), thanks to a community volunteer’s warm-hearted hospitality.

The gathering, organised by Lion Befrienders staff, took place at the home of Koh and his wife, who had invited the seniors to join them for a festive lunch. The couple served a variety of traditional dishes, including ‘pen cai,’ herbal chicken, and koi fish jelly.

The event also featured a lucky draw with exciting prizes such as abalone and fortune cookies, filling the room with excitement as winners were announced. In addition to the prizes, Koh made sure no one left empty-handed, personally distributing red packets to each guest.

For many of the attendees, the event was more than just a meal; it was an opportunity to make new friends and combat the isolation that many elderly people face. Ng Choon Phuan, an 80-year-old who lives alone, shared that these social gatherings help him stay connected and engaged. “I am not lonely here because I can make new friends and keep myself busy,” he said, adding that he regularly visits an active ageing centre to keep his mind sharp.

Leng Sow Wah, 83, also shared her experience, revealing how her challenging past had limited her social opportunities. Having started work at the age of 12 to support her family, she later worked as a cleaner while raising her children. Now living in Singapore with her children residing in Malaysia, she enjoys events like this one to widen her social circle.

The gathering, held in collaboration with Lion Befrienders, aimed to alleviate social isolation among the elderly, offering them a chance to celebrate and connect with others. Many of the seniors present have few family members around, making these communal events especially meaningful.

Koh, who has been hosting similar gatherings for the past decade, expressed his desire to continue providing this service to seniors. Inspired by a news story about Lion Befrienders’ charitable work, he said, “I want to make a difference in the seniors’ lives and provide them with a chance to celebrate the festive season in a home-like atmosphere.” He plans to keep organising these gatherings as long as he is able.

This heartwarming initiative underscores the importance of community involvement in addressing the loneliness and isolation many older adults experience, especially during festive times.